Preview:
 
Ewell’s lacklustre showing when the two sides met in October saw them drop 2 points from a winning position. Following some creditable draws and their mixed cup exploits, Ewell were looking to secure a league victory for the first time since September.
 
The Match:
 

4

CHANCE

Ewell make a lightning start to the game and the opening stages see them bombard the Old Boys Clapham backline. They come closest to breaking the deadlock when Allen’s floated cross rebounds off the post and sparks some penalty area pinball.

8

CHANCE

Harley gallops towards goal having beaten the offside trap, but his effort is repelled.  

14

CHANCE

Chipperton’s strike from distance has the keeper beater, but the cross bar comes to the away side’s rescue.

20

GOAL

In the words of the visitors’ striker, it’s a ‘smash and grab.’ Despite their complete dominance, Ewell goal behind after being hit on the counter.

30

NEAR MISS

Heptonstall keeps Ewell in the contest by denying the visitors with a smart save.

38

GOAL

Hitch. Assist: Webster. Webster rescues an over-hit cross and floats the ball back in for Hitch to attack, the latter gets up bravely and heads home from the edge of the 6-yard box.

42

CHANCE

Bullock has an opportunity to nudge the hosts in front shortly before half-time, though his legs desert him as he slips when attempting to provide a telling touch.

HALF TIME – AFC Ewell 1 vs Old Boys Clapham Reserves 1

53

CHANCE

Clancy wriggles his way into the area but the effort resulting from his cut-back is blocked by an onrushing defender.   

60

NEAR MISS

Heptonstall remains big before deflecting the ball away with his feet, providing a vital save at a time in which the game is delicately poised.

66

GOAL

Harley. Assist: Hitch. Another Hitch header helps Ewell along as he directs the Old Boys Clapham keeper’s goal kick into Harley’s path. Harley keeps his cool and steers the ball beyond the keeper to ensure Ewell finally achieve the lead that their play thus far has warranted.

70

NEAR MISS

A nervous moment for Ewell as Heptonstall is called into action again after the visitors break the hosts’ off-side trap.

90

YELLOW CARD

A. Williams takes one for the team and wrestles his man to the ground in order to halt a last ditch break.  

FULL TIME – AFC Ewell 2 vs NPL Reserves 2

 
The verdict:
 
Ewell kept up the momentum following an impressive outing last time out. In spite of the difficult conditions and disintegrating playing surface, Ewell’s determination and hard work ensured that they eventually emerged as deserving victors in a game that should have been out of sight with 15 minutes on the clock.