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Southern Combination Cup - 1st round tie

MATCH REPORT

Chertsey Town showed more positive signs of emerging from their recent doldrums with a strong two goal win over Reading Town who are currently in the top half of the Hellenic League. The Chertsey side displayed a extra sense of urgency and unity in their play and could well have piled on the agony against well organised opposition.

 Another plus was the absence of any suggestion that a silly defensive error, leading to a soft goal in manner seen so often of late. Reading had their moments but it was clear from the start which team had the better pedigree and an early goal, thumped in over goalkeeper Scott Hoggetts in the 8th minute by Aaron McLeish underlined Chertsey's advantage.

 In a high paced first half, the action mainly centred around the approaches to the Reading goal and Hoggetts was kept busy, He did well but was unable to stop goal number two, a spot kick conversion by John Pomroy after Gareth Graham had been on the wrong end of a mistimed tackle. The 17th minute, therefore, saw Town's lead increase to two.

 It was a wonder that a rampant Chertsey failed to increase their lead even further before the interval. Marcus Moody looked likely to score with a powerful 15 yard strike but the ball was tipped over the bar and McLeish had two bites at slotting the ball home at close range but each time it was blocked, then eventually cleared.

 The second half was less frenetic and perhaps less exciting to watch but was still a solid contest with both sides putting their all into gaining an ascendancy. Goalmouth action was not so prevalent with the best chance being created by a fierce Gavin Bolger shot that Hoggetts parried but straight to Pomroy. His return volley had everyone fooled for it seemed certain that he would plant the ball into the gaping net but his effort went narrowly wide.

 Chertsey have appeared fragile at times and had a tendency to funnel towards the opposition penalty area in a measured and deliberate style but none of these traits were on show on Tuesday evening and their more direct play looked more likely to reap dividends.