Ten-man Fleet recover winning touch

Report by Steve Cantle

Fleet re-discovered their winning touch on Saturday, scoring twice to get the better of a lively Ashford side. The welcome return to form after three consecutive defeats keeps Fleet in third place and in touch with the division’s leading sides.

For the first time in many weeks, boss Andy Sinton was able to select from an injury-free squad, with only defender, Steve Noakes still absent with illness. It meant a return for the defensive back-line of Steve Hemmings and skipper, Mark Paterson, a pairing which had given the side such a successful start to the season.

Fleet started brightly, and went ahead after only 9 minutes. The move was started on the right by wingman, James Field, whose pass picked out striker Ed Smith. Smith’s low pass across the face of the goal was skilfully collected by Wallace who struck it hard into the net.

After going ahead Fleet threatened to take charge, but the home side quickly showed what a dangerous attacking side they are, despite their low position (20th) in the league table. Fleet came under a lot of pressure, Ashford’s Ken Jarrett-Elliot posing huge problems for Fleet on the right wing. In the end the pressure forced an equaliser in the 33rd minute, when a shot came back from the upright, presenting defender, Marc Cumberbatch with a simple tap-in.

After the break the play continued end to end, and Fleet keeper, Justin Gray needed to be at his sharpest on several occasions to keep the scores level.

Fleet’s winner came in the 58th minute. A long distance shot from mid-fielder, Ben White was parried on to the underside of the bar by keeper, Lindley and bounced back into play. Initially waving play on, the referee changed his decision seconds later after consulting with his assistant, who indicated the ball had crossed the goal-line. Despite protests from the Ashford players, the goal was allowed.

Two minutes later Fleet were reduced to 10 men, after White had been shown a second yellow card, following a two-footed challenge for the ball.

Fleet held on well for the final 30 minutes. Sub Darren Campbell going close with several fine efforts, after coming on following an injury to Field in the 68th minute.

Fleet have no first team midweek game this week. On Saturday they are at home to 5th placed Sittingbourne. Kick off is 3pm.