With several local matches postponed today due to waterlogged pitches, only Bracknell Town and Finchampstead – of the sides we cover – played and although both won, the games couldn’t have been more different.
Prior to today, the Robins had only lost once in 21 matches – a midweek away Perpetua Press Hellenic Floodlit Cup tie at Ardley United who coincidentally were the visitors to Larges Lane this afternoon in the Uhlsport Hellenic League Premier Division.
Five minutes into the match disaster struck for the hosts when Jack Ross crossed from the right to an unmarked Lean Howards who coolly fired home and it nearly got worse minutes later when Chris Grace was forced to make a fine point blank save.
About the same time, Thame United took the lead at home to Longlevens which would have seen them climb above Bracknell.
Whatever Mark Tallentire said at half time certainly worked as the Robins scored twice in eleven minutes to take the lead.
Firstly, Jamie McClurg’s effort was beaten away but Khalid Senussi crossed for Gavin Smith to back-heel home. Both players showing what they can do after being drafted into the side in place of Seb Bowerman and Adam Cornell.
Related: Kylo Atkinson and Harry Swabey see Finchampstead rout Holyport
Senussi and McClurg were involved in the second goal playing a nice one-two before the former delivered a pinpoint low cross which TJ Bohane gratefully received to score from close range.
Ardley switched to a back three and sent the goalkeeper up for a late corner but Bracknell held on for a hard fought victory which keeps them top. Thame kept up the pressure eventually beating Longlevens 2-0.
With six matches remaining, the Robins head the pack with 69 points but Thame are right there on 68 points. Tallentire’s troops know if they win all six games they will be crowned champions.
Visit our Hellenic Premier Division page for Saturday’s full results and up to date league table.
