3s continue solid start in sunbury scorcher

The 3's continued their solid start to the season with a hard fought win against local rivals Sunbury despite the testing conditions. Ashford were under pressure from the outset with a youthful sunbury midfield and forward line testing the resolve of the Ashford defence but great defence from the back line of James Maitland, Matt Sutch, Adrian Hewes and Stephen Forster supported by critical saves from Andrew Ritchie ensured the Ashford goal remained unscathed.

When attacking Ashford looked dangerous through the distribution of James Berressem and Dave merchant picking out the forward line of Max Perman, Chris Lunn and debutant Peter Russell who were able to hold the ball up until reinforcements could arrive. This culminated in Ashford's first short corner where after a save from the Sunbury keeper, Matt Sutch followed up with a sweetly struck strike into the bottom left corner.

Having taken the lead against the run of play Ashford quickly doubled their lead when following a well worked move out of defence Pavi Aulakh made a burst down the right wing breaking through a tackle before playing a sumptuous cross to Lunn who swept a first time shot into the net.

At the break Ashford discovered that the efforts of Robert Evans to rush to the game and provide a much needed extra man was stymied by a puncture on Walton bridge to the displeasure of fellow road users. With bubbles having to depart early, James Maitland showed club spirit in continuing into the second half despite having a prior engagement (sorry Shane) to provide Ashford with the 11 men they needed.

Throughout the second half Sunbury continued to push heavily against the tiring Ashford defence which had supported by the introduction of club stalwart Cameron Dare but despite many short corners and shots on goal the wall stayed firm maintaining the winning start to the season.

Andy Ritchie was voted man of the match in the sunbury bar after the game with honourable mentions to Max, Matt and Pavi. Thanks goes out to all who doubled up or stepped in at late notice to ensure that Ashford were able to field a full side

The 3s look to continue their fine start to the season next week with a final friendly at home to Bracknell