Sutton Valence fight back against worthy adversaries

The start of the new seam saw Sutton Valence 2 XI welcome Folkestone Optimist 5 XI for an eagerly anticipated match, a fixture which never fails to disappoint.

Folkestone looked keen from the off, showing off a steady stream of fast paced, well-executed passing routines, more in-tune with a fit, well-trained, mid-season team rather than a load of middle-aged men at the beginning of the season.

Folkestone took an early lead, much to the frustration of goalkeeper Mark Whitmill.

Disappointingly, Folkestone went two-nil up soon after.

Sutton Valence clawed a goal back against the flow of play thanks to a cracking cross from midfielder Tom Willson, which flew across the face of the goal to Alastair Robinson, so at full pace flicked the ball effortlessly into the back of the net.

As the game progressed, Sutton Valence found a way to dominate the game, through possession and short accurate passes.

Tom Willson managed to secure the equaliser deep into the second half, assisted by a skilful run through the Folkestone defence by Charlie Tucker.

As the game edged towards the final whistle, both teams continued to fight, with matters getting more and more panicky. Alas, the game ended in a fair draw, 2-2.