Preview:
Victory for Ewell in their curtain closing fixture would be enough to see them claim third place and possible promotion to Intermediate Division, and so the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The Match:
8
NEAR MISS
An early wake up call for Ewell as they switch off at a set piece and the crossbar is rattled, although the whistle had been blown in the build up.
27
CHANCE
Ahmad is found in an advanced position but he drills the volley straight into the keeper’s midriff.
31
GOAL
Ewell fall behind after a driven shot deflects beyond the wrong-footed Ransom.
38
CHANCE
The ball breaks to Bullock on the edge of the box, but he shanks his effort wide following an unfavourable bobble.
40
CHANCE
A 40 yard wonder strike from Allen canons off the crossbar after the full back galloped onto a loose ball.
HALF TIME – AFC Ewell 0 vs AMY 1
58
GOAL
Tanous. Assist: Ahmad. Sent on at the break as Ewell threw caution to the wind, Tanous makes an immediate impact after prodding in Ahmad’s partially saved shot.
70
GOAL
Tanous. Assist: Ahmad. Ewell’s strong second half showing is rightly rewarded with another goal, as Tanous makes no mistake from the penalty spot after Ahmad’s unselfish cutback.
78
NEAR MISS
Making himself as big as possible and delaying going to ground for as long as possible, Ransom gets a crucial paw on an AMY effort from close range.
83
GOAL
Having so nearly held on to their well-earned lead, AMY are handed a route back into the game courtesy of a penalty, having benefitted from a few fortuitous bounces in the process.
88
CHANCE
Ahmad’s mesmerising run sees him beat a handful of defenders but his effort from the edge of the box is partially blocked and Ewell’s final attack fizzles out.
FULL TIME – AFC Ewell 2 vs AMY 2
The verdict:
Ewell’s display in the opening 45 was a far cry from their excellent second half showing. Their opponents, the runners-up elect, were visibly rattled by Ewell’s attacking impetus and burgeoning self believe. On balance, the result was probably an accurate reflection and Ewell can take great confidence into next season, where they will seek to improve upon their fifth place finish.