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Late comeback not enough as Blues lose at home

Sidley United 2 - 3 Sandhurst - ESFL Division One

A late Sidley fightback was not enough to undo the damage of a poor display as bottom of the table Sandhurst won.

Sidley started well enough and had some good pressure early on. The referee made life difficult for himself with some poor decisions aggrieving both sides and a reluctance to book anyone for some firm challenges led to some angry exchanges among players.

Somewhat against the run of play Sandhurst took the lead on 36 minutes as they picked their way through the Sidley defence with accurate passing and the forward calmly slotted home. One became two on 43 minutes later as Skelton came out to clear a ball over the top but the forward blocked his clearance and he walked the ball into the net. It could have been 3 before half time but for a wonder save from Skelton with 3 forwards waiting to pounce.

Arguments with opposition and teammates seemed more at the forefront of some minds than playing as Sidley were made to make a half time substitution with Nathan Le Beau replacing Ryan Foord. 

Sandhurst's third goal was well taken on 63 minutes as the impressive forward beat a Sidley defender and as Skelton came out the ball was chipped over him and in for 3 - 0. With Will Dunstall picking up an injury to his knee that forced him off, Sidley could have been embarrassed but instead responded.

On 80 minutes Aaron Cochrane turned the ball in from close range after an initial shot was parried as Sandhurst dropped deeper. Kevin Rose, who had moved up front then hit the post just minutes later and that proved a big moment.

Sidley piled on the pressure and on 92 minutes an Adam Day corner went straight in to give Blues hope. There was time for one final chance from a free kick but Cochrane's header was wide and Sandhurst held on.

Disappointing for the Blues who really need to avoid quarrelling and losing confidence when things go against them and stick together. 

Sidley team: Skelton, May, Walker, Foord (Le Beau), Rose, Chandler, Day, Bailey, Dunstall (Kettering), Cochrane, Miles.

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