‘Brass monkeys’ was the phrase on everyone’s mind this morning and, to be honest, the pitch was so heavy it was almost unplayable. However, it was the last game of the year and everyone was keen to finish on a positive note. Park were sadly lacking in the goalie department today, Sam Burkill has tonsillitis and Niall Fahey was below par so Dan Chapman pulled on the green shirt in the first half and proved, again, what a fine keeper he is.

It was hard-going all round and the ball appeared leaden but Jamie Rice had a few shots and Mobeen Hanid had a few good runs. Timely tackles were displayed by several players including Alex Cassin and Dan Rapsom but James Russell produced a perfect sliding tackle in the midfield which was worthy of the spectators cheers. Merstham had a couple of shots on goal, one of which hit the post and still required a save from Chapman to prevent it rebounding in. The ref was handing out cards like Christmas presents due to some mild back-chat from players, who will be spending their pocket money paying their fines!!! Shahil Pallana removed his gilet and slotted into the right back position, this changed the dynamics of the defence and allowed Park to make a few positive runs along the wing but at the end of the first half it was 0-0, it was freezing cold and the sky was looking worryingly dark.

After half time, Mobeen Hanid sportingly volunteered to go in goal and Chapman was released full throttle onto the field, he appeared to be having a slight problem keeping his too-big goalie shorts up and this was hindering his kicking action. However, he played well and was instrumental in several attacks on the opposition. Park appeared more determined in this half and were taking the game to Merstham, proving worthy owners of their top of the league status. Chapman had a couple of well-aimed shots but these had little power behind them and were easily saved by the Merstham keeper. Merstham earned a free kick just outside of the box and Hanid was required to make a skilful save, preventing them taking the lead.

A long ball from Park was controlled by Chapman; he squared the ball to James Hollands who beat a defender, took his time to place the ball into the back of the net. At last the deadlock was broken and Park went ahead. This lead was going to be difficult to hold on to but despite efforts from Merstham to equalise, Christian Price-Wright, with assistance from Ben Wright who worked tirelessly along the wing, supported Hanid at the back and defended every one of their efforts successfully. The final whistle couldn’t come quick enough for the Park players and also the very cold spectators.

Special mentions should go to Chapman and Hanid for filling the goalie’s shirt very well, Hanid earning this weeks lad of the match trophy. James Russell and Alex Cassin played well: Iris Gjoni was on form and his booking appeared rather harsh and unnecessary.

What a great end to 2011 with 13 wins and one draw under our belts and still in the running for all cup competitions. Enjoy your break lads and you should all be very proud of your achievements so far this season. Manager, Tony Musto was rewarded for his tireless work with the team with a generous Christmas present. Merry Christmas everyone and see you all back in the New Year.

Team: Chapman, Wright, Price-Wright, Cassin, Tames, Gjoni, Russell, Rapson, Hanid, Hollands, Rice, Fahey, Pallana and Musto.