Match Report

Despite one or two absentees, Darren and Vince were again spoilt for choice when picking a squad for this match. Returning to the fold were S. Milner, S.Small and G. Fullone who could not play because of Cup regulations.

Opening exchanges were fairly equal with Farnborough showing more intent and desire in getting the ball down, and Fairfield being a little more dominant on the physical side of things and being much more direct with their game plan. The referee was 'no-nonsense' which only served to frustrate players and management from both sides.

Midway through the first half Farnborough took the lead with a real opportunist finish from J. Ellis who stole in front of the Fairfield number 1 converting from an acute angle following good work from the industrious D. Head down the left. This really represented an excellent opportunity for Farnborough to take a foot hold on the game, however it was Fairfield that took the initiative in the following 10 minutes when their centre forward capitalised on what appeared to be initially a half chance. Before the half was over Farnborough had the opportunity to take the lead for the 2nd time, an opportunity squandered.

The second half started a little flat, and as the half grew, Farnborough once more played the better football, although again in some quarters of the pitch Fairfield appeared the more physically stronger and were picking up the majority of the 2nd ball. Changes were made for both tactical and injury reasons.

1-1 after 90 minutes and the game went to extra time. A slight reshuffle saw A. Wray moved from right midfield to centre forward and four minutes from time the decision looked a master stroke with A. Wray stealing in between the centre half and goalkeeper to lift the ball over the keeper and in to the net to give Farnborough a 2-1 lead. Surely the next round beckoned. The game restarted and before a Farnborough player managed a meaningful touch, G. Burkett in the Farnborough goal was picking out the equaliser. 2-2 it finished and so on to penalties.

Despite G. Burkett saving the 1st penalty (twice following a re-take), Farnborough couldn't capitalise losing 3-4 on penalties with one being saved and one hitting the post. Disappointing, although truth be told...Farnborough didn't really do enough against Fairfield team from the division below to win the game.

Overall an 'ok' performance. MOM votes were evenly spread with G. Burkett and B. Beesley sharing the accolade. The 2nd time in two weeks defensive personnel have walked away MOM.

This week it is back to the league against an experienced and well organised Chelsfield side that if past seasons are anything to go by can mix it up as well as play some attractive football. One thing is for sure...they will will make Farnborough pay from set pieces if needless free kicks are conceded around the 18 yard box as they were this week.

Let's hope that in next week's report I am writing about three points picked up!

Todays team: GK - G. Burkett, RB - J. Adams, CB - B. Beesley, CB - A. Benningfield (P.Butler), LB - R. Johnson (S. Milner), RM - A. Wray, CM - T. Skrine (S. Small), CM - J. Keyworth, LM - D. Head, CF - J. Ellis, CF - D. Clark