MATCH REPORT: ERITH & BELVEDERE V ASHFORD UNITED 0-1

ERITH & BELVEDERE V ASHFORD UNITED

Ashford United began their league programme in fine style on Sunday 13th August 2023 against newly promoted Erith & Belvedere.

The match, played at Park View Road, Welling, entertained the 361 spectators almost from start to finish.

Ashford United were the first to create a scoring chance when a defender of Erith & Belvedere completely miskicked the ball which was sent ‘hurtling’ it towards his own goal and causing goalkeeper Jordan Perrin to scramble the ball away illegally with his hand, an action for which he was cautioned. Ashford were awarded a free kick just six yards from the goal. The home side committed almost all players onto the goal line and the Ashford effort was cleared.

The ‘Nuts & Bolts’ took the lead in the 21st minute. Something of a melee in the goalmouth with a couple of efforts being blocked when Lewis Knight blasted the ball into the top of the net.

The goal caused the hosts to up their game somewhat and put the Ashford defence under some pressure from which they coped well although it took two world class saves from Jacob Russell to keep his goal intact.

Lanre Azeez replaced Jonah Tolulope at half time.

The second half continued in much the same vein with Erith & Belvedere pressurising the Ashford defence but in the main they stayed firm although it took another great save from Jacob Russell.

Noah Carney replaced Alex Akrofi in the 67th minute and immediately made an impact. excellent effort was blocked when it appeared to be on its way into the net by a defender.

Ashford held out quite admirably for the three points following a game from which hopes and expectations bode well for the future.

Man of the Match – Jacob Russell