SAL - 19th October 2002

An accomplished performance saw Carshalton eventually run out easy winners in this clash.  The atmosphere within the changing room was good before the game and Carshalton took that on to the pitch and controlled the game from early on.  However, although we had a few good chances the game was still a stalemate after 30 mins, at which time Dave Etukudo needed to be replaced after pulling a hamstring.  Only one real chance for South Bank which Neil "Costas" Backers saved well. 

The injury setback was soon forgotten as Shaun Swan won a header in his own half which turned into a goal assist, Dave Leach powering through to lob the keeper.  5 minutes later a near copycat header from Shaun released our ever dynamic Captain Cook who converted the chance with a Beckham-esque curling shot from 20 yards into the top left hand corner of the goal. 

The game then turned further to our advantage.  Following a challenge from Keith Cave, their centre forward stamped on Keith's leg and was duly dismissed from the field of play.  Although initially a foul from Keith (who was booked for the challenge), credit should be given to him for showing restraint after the stamping.  Is he mellowing in his old age or just too exhausted to react?  Email the club with your verdict..... I can't remember the last time Keith didn't react to someone smaller than him! 

At 2-0 up and the opposition down to 10 men, we surprisingly started the second half tentatively with South Bank pressing forward. It took us a while to get used to their 10 man team, but after 15 minutes control was once again regained and we started creating more chances.  A second goal for Cookie eased the nerves (another nice lob of their keeper) and the fourth followed from Dave Tilley after a good passing move ended with a cross and excellent finish.  We continued to pass the ball quite well, but some over-elaboration let SBC in for a late consolation. 

A good win and nice journey back for everyone except maybe Rob Cheeseman after a comment from the Captain of "Rob (Cheeseman) - only you now in the car that hasn't scored!!"  Rob enjoyed a car journey home with Andy Cook and Dave Tilley talking about themselves.

Paul Gunter