Molesey vs Chessington & Hook

The short journey to Walton Road home of Molesey FC saw us against the form side of the division, ourselves being the last team to defeat them back in October.

With the return of Malik Buari, Matt Holley and a rare start for Jimmy Brazil the shape was changed to the early season formation of 3 5 2.

In a terrible opening we could have fallen behind after ten seconds, when only a poor finish saved us. Clearly rocked by our hosts start, we took a full five minutes before the ball entered the Molesey half . In an attempt to gain a foothold we went longer than usual with our passing and at least that had the effect of the game being played slightly further from our penalty area, although to be honest all of the early chances were created by a well organised and lively Molesey team. Mark Daniels saving well twice from headed attempts following well drilled dead ball kicks.

Having gradually weathered the initial storm, our own offensive play improved and a series of corners and crosses particularly from the left gave us the occasional sight of the Molesey goal. Just before the half hour, a break down the right saw Jimmy Brazil fouled but staying on his feet to force a corner. Andrew Weir’s fine delivery headed home by James White to give us a lead that possibly was slightly against the run of play.

We had at least given ourselves a platform in what was proving a difficult game and despite increased pressure we reached half time with our lead intact.

In the second half we were far more organised and more efficient in dealing with the movement and energy of the Molesey midfield, although the growing sense of frustration from the Chessington bench was evident as a series of free kicks were conceded which invited a great deal of pressure that we were doing well to deal with. Our own goal threat wasn’t that great, but our defensive qualities were on show as Mark Daniels had little to do in the second half. Strong performances from the back three of West, Puckett and Holley was being well supported by Cheadle, White and Weir and the late introduction of Andrew Heath added to that resilience. As Molesey searched for a late equaliser the competitive nature of Heath, West and Cheadle resulted in bookings, although the suggestions of the home crowd, dugout and players that we were nothing more than cynical was a little harsh.

A fine three points keeps us in touch with the top as we look forward to visiting Bookham on Tuesday night.