The game started with both teams trying establish control. The initial phases of the game were played out in the central third with both midfields seeing plenty of the ball without making any meaningful penetration. Each side had speculative shots from range without really worrying each of the keepers.
As the game settled down and players from both sides gained confidence with the ball, some better football was played and we started to make more use of the width. We were certainly moving the ball faster and Paul C was having some joy holding the ball up with the midfield of John R, Rob and Shaun joining. We began to work their keeper and started to create better chances in front of goal.
Our control eventually paid dividends when a swift passing move saw an interchange between our midfielders that created space for Shaun to move into and his low shot flew passed their keeper into the corner of the goal.
Within 5 minutes we doubled our lead with what was possibly the best passing move of the game. The ball was played up to Paul C who held it up before his back heal completely wrong footed their defence and left Shaun in acres of space and a clear path to goal. He needed no second invite and strode forward before again burying a low shot passed their keeper.
We were now in complete control but being let down by our indiscipline. We were giving away too many unnecessary free kicks both through contact and not walking. Eventually we were guilty of one too many offenses and gave Ashford a lifeline with a penalty following our fourth non walking offence. Fortunately the spot kick was sent wide and we were reprieved.
There was virtually no time left and we went in 2 - 0 to the good.
The second half saw Ashford start strongly and they pushed hard to get a foothold in the game. We tried to absorb the pressure but they were starting to pull us out of shape. They broke down their right and the ball was played to their striker who calmly found the net.
They were now clearly going to push for an equaliser but they too were suffering from non walking indiscipline. We got our composure back and Rob, John and Shaun got a degree of control back into our midfield. Unfortunately, Shaun made one too many robust challenges and was given a blue card for an accumulation of individual contact offences. Despite the number advantage, we prevented Ashford from scoring albeit we needed Jan to be at his best a couple of times to keep them out.
With the blue card expired and us back to full strength we regained our shape and control. Ashford continued to push but this enthusiasm saw them give away a fourth non walking offence and we had a penalty. Rob calmly took the spot kick which their keeper got to but saw the ball go under him and into the net.
With our two goal advantage re-established we again settled but continued to push for further goals. Unfortunately, they didn't come for either side and the game finished with a victory. Canterbury 3 - 1 Ashford.
My thanks to the 8 players who all gave a great performance.
Additionally, to the supporters who turned up to watch.
Finally, congratulations to John R for his controlling play and work rate in midfield which earned him the Player Of The Match.
Paul
