The win was narrow only in result terms as United dominated this match and could and should have walked away with a comfortable victory. That they found themselves 2-0 down at half time was simply astonishing although a much disputed penalty wasn’t helpful in that respect although to be fair the penalty United were awarded in the second half appeared to be a leveller as this too seemed a little harsh.
Debutants Tom Henderson and Jamie Williams can be pleased with their contribution as can stalwarts Leigh Mason, Joe Da Silva and Ross Middleton not so much for any particular skilful approach, almost impossible on a very poor surface, more for their tenacity and willingness to roll their sleeves up. Not that the rest of the team were lacking in that department as it was willpower as much as anything else that dragged United back to the top of the league.
Also pleasing is the squad that is currently evolving, we have so many attacking options and in Qwamani Thomas and Wes Sutherland we have as yet two fully untapped players of skill, pace and ability.

I’m pleased we won this game mostly for obvious reasons but more so that I can complain about the pitch and not come across as a bad loser. It was awful, the long grass proving a great leveller and it hurt United’s attempted slick passing approach far more than Hurst’s long ball tactic but we prevailed and all credit to the team for that. However much credit goes to Manager Letts whose half time rant was not only justified but was the catalyst, in my view, that took us across the line along with the tactical changes he made. Well done Mathew!

The main thrust of the ‘rant’ was aimed at players drinking until the early hours prior to the game. Letts has inspired a great camaraderie amongst the squad and one wouldn’t wish to underestimate or degrade that in any way or form but if United are to realise championship ambitions it simply can’t be done but the players now know that and I’m sure will respond accordingly! Midnight curfew boys!

The reserve team forced a good 4-0 win yesterday and went to the top of Division Two. It’s been a while now since we could boast a strong reserve team, it used to be the norm, but boss Eliot Ryan is steering the team in the right direction and while its early days it is encouraging.

So on to next week where United will make its debut at its new ground at the Redgrave Centre in Marlow which has now been approved by the league subject to a minor alteration. The first team entertain new boys AFC Aldermaston while the reserves entertain Eldon Celtic at Gossmore Lane both games kick off at 2pm.