After a long summer break and promotion last season, Sutton Valence stepped back into league action in Invicta Division 1 for the first time since April — and what a return it was. Despite travelling light with only 12 players, Sutton Valence produced a commanding team performance to earn a 3–0 victory.

From the first whistle, the game was tight, with both sides battling for control in midfield. Sutton Valence kept pushing for the opener and, despite a green card shown to Stamp in the 20th minute, it was the same man who broke the deadlock shortly after, tucking away the first goal of the campaign.

At the back, defensive discipline proved crucial. The quartet of James Stanford, Angus McVarish, captain Dan Brooks, and new signing Josh Houston showcased composure and patience, transferring the ball calmly around the back to settle the tempo and frustrate the opposition. Their control allowed the side to dictate play and build from a solid foundation.

Half-time arrived with Sutton Valence holding a slender 1–0 lead, but the best was yet to come.

The second half saw moments of real quality. A lightning counterattack led to a pinpoint cross from captain Brooks, which was met with an outrageous full-stretch deflection from Houston — his first goal for the club and one worthy of the “Man of the Match” accolade. Shortly after, Brooks himself was controversially shown a yellow card, leaving Sutton Valence temporarily under pressure, but the squad dug in and held firm.

The result was sealed in the 65th minute when player-coach Ali Carter, who had marshalled the midfield with authority all game, capped his performance with a well-taken third goal. Carter, alongside midfield partners Barney Hall (impressing on debut from Newcastle Uni 1s) and Fred McVarish, had controlled the centre of the park superbly throughout.

When the final whistle blew, Sutton Valence celebrated a hard-fought and richly deserved 3–0 win — the perfect start to life in Division 1. With strong team spirit, standout debuts, and a clear sense of unity, the season already looks full of promise for this band of merry men.

Squad - Young, Blanchard, Brooks, McVarish A, Houston, Stanford, Hall, Carter, McVarish F, Angel, Mitchell, Stamp.
Report By: Dan Brooks

Next Match: SVHC 1 VS Canterbury N4 14:45 27/09/25