Preview:
 
Ewell’s only experience against this afternoon’s opponents was a negative one that ending in their elimination from the County Cup in the 2013/14 season. The hosts were hoping for a more successful afternoon this time around.
 
The Match:
 

20

CHANCE

After a competitive opening to the game, Hitch wriggles free and fires a well-struck volley at goal from a tight angle. Somehow, his effort smashes the post and doesn’t cross the line.

33

NEAR MISS

Merton breach Ewell’s backline but fail to capitalise on an incisive breakaway.

HALF TIME – AFC Ewell 0 vs Merton Social 0

62

GOAL

A fortuitous through-ball dissects Ewell’s defence after Chipperton had stepped up to get ahead of the balls intended target.      

68

NEAR MISS

Ransom keeps Ewell in the contest after making a fine fingertip save and deflecting the ball onto the crossbar.

74

NEAR MISS

Ransom palms away a goal-bound effort and Chipperton manages to complete the double clearance by making a last gasp block.

78

CHANCE

For the second week running, Clancy opts to stay on his feet instead of going down when under undue pressure in the penalty area. To Ewell’s astonishment, they are awarded a free-kick rather than a penalty when the advantage comes to nothing.

90

CHANCE

Offside or not, Clancy has a glorious opportunity with the last kick of the game. Ewell are spared the agony of seeing the goal ruled out as Clancy’s effort sails over the bar.

FULL TIME –AFC Ewell 0 vs Merton Social 1

 
The verdict:
 
It was a case of ‘one of those afternoons’ for Ewell as they huffed and puffed to no avail in this close encounter. Without ever reaching their fluid best, Ewell did compete manfully but lacked the required cutting on the day.