sponsored by

Another game where the opposition manager suggested the margin of victory was flattering.  No doubt that Ashford deserved their win, especially with their second half performance.  The first half was very competitive with Carshalton starting off the brighter.  However, Ashford opened the scoring with a high ball that caught the breeze and deceived Dan in goal.  No blame attached - just one of those thing.  The second goal was a top quality finish, lobbing Dan from outside the box.  We might have folded, but again the boys showed an excellent spirit.  We forced our way back into the game when Ruaridh's corner was headed in at close range by Arran right on halftime.

We really believed we could get something out of the game and a win was not beyond us.  However, Ashford raised their game and we went off the boil.  Probably too many changes of personnel and positions for us to have any cohesion - something that Paul and I have learned from this game.  Ashford played some good passing football and their forwards were too cute for our defence. 2-1 became 3-1 and 4-1 before Ruaridh scored a penalty to make it 4-2 and then Ashford scored a penalty of their own to complete the scoring.

There is no disgrace in losing to Ashford, who are a very well organised and talented side - something for us to aim for ourselves.  Remember we win and lose as a team.  No-one in our squad should consider they had a poor game because we lost.  There were some excellent performances.  You need to remember that we are playing at the top level and for many of the team this is a significant step up from previous seasons.  Trust me, you are all doing well and Paul, myself and your parents are proud of you.

Thanks to Kelvin and Ben for their hospitality.  It is always a pleasure to play against you and your boys.  We look forward to welcoming you to Beddington Park later in the season.

Buzz