Merton 1s v Carshalton – 10th september 2011

A wake-up call. It won’t be the story of our season, but today Carshalton were hungrier, fitter and better organised. Credit to the opposition for taking full advantage as we gifted them four of their goals. Oaksey got his only mistakes for the year out the way (so consistently high are his standards), the midfield was out-jumped and defence was caught flat-footed from a straightforward goal kick (our own), and, in our eagerness to up the tempo we jumped in when it was better to stand off, eventually conceding a penalty (no names mentioned, Clowesy).

The positives, such as they were, meant that we kept working hard to create, despite being largely pennedback for much of the game. Ash, Jason and Femi were mostly isolated up front, and when our chances did come,their keeper was not found wanting.

The pick of the bunch was dug out by Chris Rayner, on as a substitute, who probed down the left and produceda first-time hooked cross that Ash made into our best chance of the game, directing a header low to the keeper’s right from 16 yards out – and forcing a fine save.

Fitness, focus and form must improve.

Team:Oaksey (GK), John,Clowesy, Clappers (Lofty H-T), Tilley, Woody, Will, Wilgo, Femi (Rayner 70),Ash, Jason

MOM: Jason Thomas

Report by:Graham Willgoss