While loathe to gloat especially considering the humility Woodley Town demonstrated following this match it has to be said that United were at least 5 goals better than the opposition yesterday. I have mentioned many times this season that United defend from the front but that’s no longer true and just as well as yesterday may have proved different but for what is now a rock solid defence. Chances squandered was the tale of United’s day but the back 5 held firm and were always in control following an early 10 minute settling in period.

There were some good performances and the usual suspects, Middleton, Britnell, Mason and Flint didn’t disappoint. James Namyslak had what I consider to be his best game of the season in a United shirt while Alan Mckie at the back was outstanding. There is a top quality partnership forming between Mckie and James Williams at the centre of United’s defence and this talented pair can only get stronger and better.

I’m starting to wonder if I have seen a better centre back than Mckie. A former high jumper, Mckie demonstrates the athleticism that one might expect from such an athlete, add to this his speed of thought as well as body and you almost have the complete player in this position. The jury is still out but he is definitely on the watch list.

We now look forward to a semi-final tie with either Wokingham & Emmbrook or Stokenchurch with the former being the likely opposition, but who knows and if it were to be Stokenchurch it will resurrect an old almost forgotten rivalry. Back in the mid 80’s United v Stokenchurch was the ‘derby’ and I recall on our way to winning the Wycombe & District Football League Championship that we had to beat Stokenchurch to knock them out of the title race, United duly did that with two ‘Teeny’ Roberts goals which led to a narrow, and it was narrow, 2-1 victory and ultimately brought the title home to United.

All of our games were tight and nervy encounters so it would be good to revisit that rivalry with our near neighbours if only as a one off.

Another opportunity to reach the Madejski Stadium presents itself when United face Unity in the semi-final of the BTC Senior Cup which provokes memories of the 2012/13 season when United found themselves in a similar treble winning position but back then for reasons that still escape me our title challenge imploded and we need to learn the lessons from that season if we are to achieve this lofty ambition.

The reserves finished their league season on a low yesterday crashing 4-0 at Westwood United to confirm a below mid table position. However their season isn’t yet over as they face Finchampstead in the Reading Junior Cup semi final at a date yet to be confirmed.

The first team host Rotherfield United next Saturday where it’s not just the points that are vital. Goals are also paramount as Reading YMCA have forged a 3 point lead having played one more game than United but critically, perhaps, have a +7 goal difference advantage.

Its time to get the shooting boots on!