County TeamsVital win for Under 18's
Monday, 19 November 2007.
Kent went into the game against the Royal Navy knowing that a win was vital to maintain their hopes of winning the group and progressing to the Final of the Home Counties competition.
Kent started the brighter of the two teams and some neat football saw a number of good chances missed but it looked only a matter of time before the first goal would come.
However, Kent could not get the break through despite some exciting wing play from Jack Collins and Nick Rich but the home team failed to score.
The best chance fell to the Navy after 20 minutes when the visitors broke clear of the Kent defence but Kent keeper Luke Stonebridge brilliantly saved with his arms.
Kent's right back Tom Parkinson had an excellent first half, as Kent continued to press and look for an opening however, at half time, the game was still goalless.
Kent did get the all important breakthrough when in the 53rd minute, Ben Brown was brought down in the box. A penalty was awarded and with Sam Callendar stepping up and coolly tucked away an excellent penalty.
The persistent Brown broke the Navy defence twice but the visitors held out.
Rich proved to be a threat down the left and created two excellent chances for himself. The first just missed the target and the second was well saved by the keeper.
As the tension grew the Navy displayed a fighting spirit with their fitness levels shining through, however the Kent keeper was never really troubled and Kent held out for a 1 - 0 win.
Caretaker manager Kent Brooke said ‘I was delighted for team that we secured the all important 3 points. It was also a real pleasure to play at Dartford F.C. where the facilities are outstanding. “
Brooke later went onto say ‘I would like to say a big well done to the Navy team who had an fantastic spirit and some excellent footballers.
Team: Luke Stonebridge, Tom Parkinson, Sam Kettle, Ben Brown, Ashley Ulph, Jack Barry (Chris Smalling), Jack Collins (Olly Funnell), Colin Richmond (Ian Brooke), Sam Callander, Nick Nowotny, Nick Rich. Subs not used: Deren Ibrahim, Adam Oxberry.