Preview:
 
Ewell’s first away trip of the season saw them make the relatively short distance to Raynes Park. The two teams dominated Junior Division Two last season, and will have their sights set on another title tilt this time around.
 
The Match:
 

14

NEAR MISS

Heptonstall is called into action and produces an instinctive save to deny the hosts.    

30

NEAR MISS

A Raynes Park player beats the offside trap and ghosts through, although fortunately for the visitors his effort misses the target.

34

CHANCE

Bullock Is unable to arrange his feet and provide the telling touch when the ball is fizzed across the box.

37

CHANCE

Clancy dances his way into the box but his cut back is intercepted before a Ewell player can prod the ball home.

HALF TIME – Raynes Park Vale ‘A’ 0 AFC Ewell 0

50

CHANCE

Ewell are almost rewarded for their commanding start to the half, Hodge lets rip from range having evaded several tackles, but his effort sails narrowly over the cross bar.   

62

NEAR MISS

Heptonstall denies the hosts again with a fine reaction save, having already been forced to make several key interceptions with his feet and head.     

68

CHANCE

Keogh’s header from Chipperton’s corner is hacked off the line. Almost an instant impact from the substitute.  

74

CHANCE

Ransom collects the ball on the edge of the box, steadies himself and fires off a shot that nestles into the side netting.

80

CHANCE

Ewell come within an inch of taking the lead as Hodge’s crashing effort thumps the crossbar, in a left-footed replay of his earlier effort.

86

GOAL

A swift Raynes Park breakaway leads to the concession of a late penalty, unfortunately for Ewell, the imperious Heptonstall is unable to keep out the resulting spot kick. Cruel on Ewell, who deserves a share of the spoils at the very least.

FULL TIME – Raynes Park Vale ‘A’ 1 AFC Ewell 0

 
The verdict:
 
Whilst Ewell returned home feeling understandably deflated, they could count themselves extremely unlucky after going toe-to-toe with their opponents for the duration of the game. Ewell’s clinical streak deserted them this week, although they will look to bounce back next week as they meet Rollers in the League Cup.