Can’t quite put my finger on what was wrong with the team as they warmed up for the match. One or two of them were carrying injuries, a few more looked like they’d had a night on the tiles.  Wasn’t therefore surprised when we conceded the customary early goal courtesy of a defensive error.

I think we were all surprised though by the shameful barracking of the League appointed 15-year-old female referee by a number of the Staines ‘supporters’. Every decision that went against them was met with loud derision. This reached its zenith when they continued to bay for a penalty whilst two players were receiving medical treatment.  Apparently, some people wonder why we struggle to find referees at this level.  ‘Some people’, perhaps, should take a good look at themselves and remember why it is that we all rise so early on a Sunday. It’s not because we have a replacement for Frank Lampard or John Terry sleeping in the next bedroom.  It’s to give our children a chance to participate in something they enjoy.  Something that will go a long way towards keeping them fit and healthy. Something that will impress upon them the virtues of discipline, co-operation and hopefully fair play.  And if they can carry this over into their adult life, then they’ll be better people for it.

Well, that’s my excuse anyway.  Rant over, back to the match.  We managed to equalise through Steve, but only held level for a few minutes and went in at the break 2-1 down.

Hope pretty much evaporated early in the 2^nd half when Staines made it 3-1.  We pushed forward, but every attack seemed to peter out in the 18-yard box. Every shot high, wide or deflecting out of play.  Jacko was cruelly denied when a long-range effort hit the underside of the bar and came down the wrong side of the line.

Steve grabbed a second, but it proved to be a consolation goal as the referee blew for full time immediately afterwards.

One less cup to worry about.

Back to the League next week with our first home fixture, the visitors will be Claygate Royals Griffins.

C’mon Carshalton!

Marc Chittock