The Dockers came into the match on a run of three consecutive defeats and conceding twelve goals, sitting 10th in the Southern Combination Premier Division. YMCA had lost their previous two matches with boss Liam Giles calling last week’s performance embarrassing and was critical of the commitment of some of his players.

YMCA’s new signing, Idris Gbadamosi started in defence. The former Sheerwater player has joined to bolster the team, however, today nothing seemed to click on the pitch for the home side.

After nine minutes Newhaven went on the attack; the ball was played to veteran Jake Robinson on the right wing, he found space, curled in a great cross to Emmanuel Abudiore who hit the ball wide of the post, a sign of things to come.

Newhaven were on top and after 18 minutes went ahead. Abudiore got into the box and headed the ball to the talented Josh Tuck, who headed it past YM’s captain Jordan Brown for the opening goal.

YM were offering very little going forward and it was the Dockers who doubled their lead. In first half injury time, the skilful Alfie Rogers had possession of the ball on the halfway line, he saw an opportunity and belted it over Brown into the home team’s goal, 2-0. It was Rogers’ 100th goal for the club, a fantastic achievement.

The pitch at the Herbert Direct Stadium was playable and the volunteers did an amazing job preparing it, but by the second half it was difficult to play on. Both teams were struggling to create opportunities but again Newhaven were on top.

On the 78th minute, Newhaven went three nil up. Ryan Blunt made a creative run through the home defence having been played through on his right side and shot across goal past Brown and into the net.

After the match Giles said,
“It’s been a huge eye opener in these last 10 days. As I’ve said, it was never going to be easy and we are in transition, but a real tough 10 days where I’ve managed to learn a lot about the group. We will continue building and we will get it right, you learn a lot more in defeat”.
A reflective and diplomatic view from the boss and with plenty to think about.

Man of the Match was Alfie Rogers.

YMCA are back in action on Tuesday evening as they host play off chasing Peacehaven & Telscombe (ko 7.30pm) and travel to Wick next Saturday afternoon.