The Men’s First Team picked up a very welcome three points on Tuesday evening, winning 2-0 at AFC Stoneham. The Purps were playing their first ever home League match at Step 4 and started it well, creating two early chances. Ben Mulley drew a save at the other end but the Tangerines were indebted to goalkeeper Liam Allen, who made three outstanding saves in the first half an hour.
Lewis Hillary was forced off with an injury in the 35th minute and Tyrell Sampson forced Allen to make a save in the 39th minute, but half time arrived with the game goalless.
Alex Paine and new signing Anthony Cheshire were both substituted at the break, with Jamie Hanlon and Elliott Poley replacing them. Town began the second period brightly and eventually got their rewards for growing into the game. In the 64th minute, an outstanding pass from Ben Mulley put Jack Arnold clean through. The prolific young striker rounded home goalkeeper Ross Casey and scored.
AFC Stoneham continued to press and skipper Mat Bainbridge headed just wide from a corner. Shortly afterwards, Duarte Martins raced through and lifted the ball over the onrushing Allen only to see his shot go wide of the goal.
With three minutes left on a ‘running watch’, Ashford sealed the win with a fine counter-attacking move. Another debutant, Nathan Rogers sent Oliver Rowan clear of the home defence. Rowan squared the ball for Arnold who scored his tenth goal of the season.
After the match, manager Luke Morgan-Tuffs praised his players and offered a typically honest assessment of the game.
Because Hayes & Yeading United have an Emirates FA Cup tie this Saturday, the Men’s First Team are without a fixture this weekend, meaning their next engagement is a Surrey Senior Cup tie at Dorking Wanderers next Tuesday.
