With both teams looking for a first win in the Trophy competition, this promised to be a close game. And whilst the score line might suggest otherwise, there was little difference between the two sides. Loathed as I am to question referees especially when they are volunteer parents, unfortunately some poor decisions cost us a result that would have been a much fairer reflection on the game.

After slow starts in our two previous games, it was important we got off to a stronger start this time - and we certainly did. Although we like to play football and are a good passing side, there are times when you just need to clear the lines and we did that well today. In fact, we were really solid throughout the first half, one of the best so far this season. At half time it was still goalless with everything to play for and the boys were really up for it. So, onto the second half and the man in the middle made, shall we say, a few errors of judgement. A questionable penalty decision which followed a clear foul on Max started it, followed by an awarded goal when the ball didn't appear to cross the line, and then a third after a two footed challenge our keeper Dominic; 3-0 down and effectively game over before Westerham added a surprisingly uncontroversial fourth. In between, there was also the small matter of a stonewall penalty we should have been awarded which was for some reason got overlooked.

It was a tough game with some tough decisions that went against us and on another day, this was a game that could have ended with the result in our favour. The boys were magnificent again, although understandably had the wind taken out of their sails a little at 2-0 down. They still threw themselves into tackles to try and get something from the game, and there will be a few bumps and bruises for some. Max came close at the end to pulling one back, but it was not our day.

Dominic was solid and kept a clean sheet for 30 minutes.
Luke, Henry and Sam were steady and strong at the back.
Ryan V, Freddie and Jack gave it everything in midfield.
Max and Ryan B worked hard up front and were full of running.

Always difficult to choose the star player but especially pleasing this week to award it to Max. It's tough being the Manager's son, but he worked hard today and took note of his Dad's instructions. Well done son.