In a spirited and well-fought home match on Saturday, Sutton Valence Men’s 2s claimed their first victory of the season, triumphing 3-1 over Burnt Ash 4s. Building on a strong start, Sutton Valence showcased crisp passing and effective movement through the thirds, creating repeated challenges for the Burnt Ash defence.

The game began with Sutton Valence immediately on the front foot, driving forward with purpose and maintaining a composed defence. The defence was particularly solid, with man-to-man marking well-executed to prevent Burnt Ash from finding any rhythm in attack. Two-thirds of the way through the first half, the momentum paid off, as Andy Barr scored the first goal of the match, coolly converting from close range to give Sutton Valence a well-earned lead. However, just before halftime, Burnt Ash capitalised on a rare defensive lapse, levelling the score at 1-1 with their only clear chance of the half.

Sutton Valence emerged from halftime with renewed intensity, opting to stretch Burnt Ash through width and speed, pushing the ball upfield to test the opposition’s backline. This pressure proved successful early in the second half, as a swift through ball led to a two-on-one with the Burnt Ash goalkeeper. Barr remained calm under pressure, slipping the ball neatly under the keeper to bring the score to 2-1 and give Sutton Valence back the lead.

Continuing their aggressive play, Sutton Valence won several short corners. After a series of near misses, Harrison Sharpe found the back of the goal, tipping in a well-placed ball from the right slip from a short corner to give the team a comfortable 3-1 lead. Notable performances from Nick at left back, whose key tackles and interceptions repeatedly disrupted Burnt Ash’s attack, and Tom’s midfield dominance, creating turnovers and setting up chances, played crucial roles in maintaining control as the game progressed, not forgetting Duncan taking one for the team, being promoted to manager after taking a lifted hit ball to the wrist.

As the final whistle blew, Sutton Valence celebrated a deserved three points and their first win of the season, a promising sign for what’s to come for the rest of the season.

Goals: Andy Barr x2, Harrison Sharpe

Team:
Ross Mackay
Nick Hall
James Abrahams
Charlie Tucker
Ben Tragett
Harrison Sharpe
Alistair Robinson
Andy Barr
Tom Willson
Christian Chadwick
Chris Sheldon
Chris Stile
Duncan Wills

Report by: Harrison Sharpe
Next Match: Holcombe Hawks (A) 10:30