By a quirk of fate our FA Cup exit presented us with an opportunity to top the league

A feat we achieved last season by beating the same opponent but slightly later in the season.

With players back from holiday the already sizeable squad was increased, seeing Gary Puckett and Malik Buari playing in the reserves to get some much needed game time.

On a difficult surface and with a rather complacent start we struggled to get going and were often second best to a hard working Dorking side.

With neither goalkeeper seriously troubled it was proving to be a frustrating afternoon with mis-directed set plays and long-range efforts missing the target the best we could muster.

On twenty-seven minutes a free kick swung in by Daniel Bennett saw Cheadle’s header deflected into the path of Zak Graham who stooped to head home for his first goal for the club. Not exactly against the run of play, but certainly a goal out of nothing.

At half time Reece Jackson’s ankle injury saw him replaced by Matt Ellis, with Daniel Bennett being asked to play in a more advanced role.
The second half needed to be better, as the lacklustre first half showing served up enough encouragement for Dorking to feel they could find a way back in.

Thankfully the players delivered that performance with a more energetic showing and a more accomplished passing display.

On the hour our lead was doubled when Daniel Bennett’s mazy run saw him score a fine solo goal. Just minutes later and the points were secure.
A free kick on the edge of the box coolly curled into the bottom right hand corner by Bennett for his second and our third of the match.

With our hosts now looking well beaten it was hoped that we could add to our lead but any real hopes of this were dashed by the dismissal of Gavin Quintyne. Having clearly been fouled his reaction left little alternative to the referee, who despite looking out of his depth for most of the afternoon actually got this decision right.

With a man down we still looked the more likely, the best opportunity falling to Oliver Skeete in the final minute who’s missed kick in front of goal saw the chance go begging.

All in all whilst not being at our best the game was won and top spot claimed.