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Great result taking 6 points from what was a very difficult double header against a side which has challenged all season for a top three place.  With the referee from Hell and less than ideal weather conditions, manager Graham Polley was absolutely delighted with the performance.  I never like to be critical of the referee as I take the view that these guys give up their own time and without them the game could not go ahead.  However, I regret this referee was so poor I have to make comment.  By taking the high handed approach he did he spoilt the games.  Yes the game needed firm control, but no it did not need inconsistency and  the  over-doing of the "I'm in charge" stance.  I just hope when the guy reflects on what happened and the comments made by both managers he sees the error of his ways.  I really think he did not realise he was dealing with two teams of great players who know the rules of the game, are in no way dirty in the challenge and just wanted a flowing game.  

OK I have had my moan.  Now for the games.  The first game started and it was clear it was not going to be one way traffic.  Carshalton were perhaps slightly on top but certain boys were having digs at each other which was doing their own game no good and affecting others.  Ashford started to capitalise on this and for the first half as a whole the game was evenly matched.  The second half saw Carshalton more on top although a goal was needed.  The goal came when Tyson Phillips hit a long, and one has to say hopeful, shot from outside the area which looped over the otherwise safe hands of the Ashford goalkeeper.  Ashford came back strongly and made life for the Carshalton players and supporters very challenging with a great spell of flowing football. Nevertheless, Carshalton held on and the game ended 1-0. 

The second game saw Carshalton really start to play the sort of football we all know they are capable of.  Whilst Luke Adam's goal settled the game, the scoreline does not reflect the amount of the play Carshalton had.  Jack Mesure brought about a magnificent save from the Ashford keeper - he must be double jointed to have got to the shot.  Tyson Phillips and Rob Turner also went close and Dan Coombes and Aaron Williams really hit form in the midfield.  This, coupled with another assured defensive performance (only five goals conceded in the league - that's unbelievable at this standard of football) saw Carshalton win the day.  This sounds a rather one sided game and certainly was not the case with Ashford solid in defence and sharp in attack.  At the end of the game both sets of lads shook hands and it was clear to all that there was real respect.  

We wish Ashford all the best in their final games.  They are a well schooled bunch of lads who should be proud of the way they play football. Whilst mathematically they can't get first or second they should look to get third if they play as well as they know they can and now Carshalton FC know! - good luck Ashford.

Lee Tupper