The First team were in action yesterday against Forest Hill Park who were very decent opposition at this stage of pre season training. The game ended with a Penalty Shoot Out after a 2 – 2 draw in 90 sweltering minutes despite a 12 noon kick off. The Referee, who had an excellent game, allowed a drinks break in each half and handled the Shoot Out calmly.

The word “calm” couldn’t be used in reference to the Shoot Out – maybe “chaotic” or “bewildering” would be better adjectives as Forest Hill Park missed all of their penalties – Leo Webster saved one – one hit the bar and the rest ended in the bushes. Wickham were a bit better as we only missed two but Sam Murray and Ollie Clark were on target and we won 2 – 0. Both sides were probably affected by sunstroke.

The visitors, with a squad of 18 or 19, played some good football in the first period and took their two goals well. An intricate passing move inside their penalty area allowed Will Scudder to reduce the deficit and the Forest keeper made a superb save from a Sam Murray thunderbolt. The keeper had an excellent game making some great saves – his handling was 100% accurate and his kicking was a big asset to the visitors.

With Jack Doyle joining Connor Byrne in the middle of our defence (Mark Williams and Adam Freeman were on holiday) we had a new untried formation but they soon settled down and we kept possession in our own half very well. Our problem was in the attacking half, where our choice of passes was poor and we were holding on to the ball for too long. We needed to attack with more speed and aggression which we did in the second period. It took us until the 85th minute to equalise despite dominating the game – good work by George Maw set the goal up and Joe Kelly finished it to level the scores.

I am surprised at our fitness level in the build up to the start of the season – it’s at a decent level and we should be in top condition by Saturday 7th September.

Despite only having 13 players we finished the game strongly and were much the fitter side --- and then?? The Worst Penalty Shoot Out Ever but nobody was too bothered – we needed beer. Thanks to their coach Darrell Queeley for bringing his squad to Corkscrew Hill -- we wish them well for the season.

The Sunday side kept up their good form winning 2 – 0 against Club Langley with centre back James Turner on target along with “Wally” Walder. Their League starts on Sunday 1st September when they travel to SC Thamesmead which is a tough opening fixture.