Unbeaten Ash Utd visited Cranleigh on Sunday, 29 September, narrowly escaping with all three points after a hard-fought match. On a blustery afternoon that made conditions tricky at times, Cranleigh got their reward for a well-worked move down the right wing. A swift passing sequence created the chance for Maria to calmly slot the ball into the net from the edge of the box, giving Cranleigh a deserved lead.
Fixtures & Results
Sticking to their passing game from the back, Cranleigh controlled much of the first half. However, Ash Utd found an equaliser just before the break after Cranleigh failed to clear the ball in the penalty area. The teams went into half-time level at 1-1, which reflected the intensity of a tightly contested first half.
The second half mirrored the first, with both teams creating chances. Ash came close to taking the lead several times, striking the woodwork on multiple occasions. Cranleigh’s keeper, Laura, produced several acrobatic saves to keep the game within reach. Unfortunately, another missed clearance in Cranleigh’s box allowed Ash to score late in the second half, securing the 2-1 victory.
League table
Despite the loss, Cranleigh delivered yet another improved performance, showing significant progress both technically and physically compared to last season. A special mention goes to Ruby, who impressed on her debut with a tireless effort down the right wing. The referee even praised Cranleigh for playing the game “the right way” with their commitment to passing out from the back.
Next Sunday, Cranleigh face another tough challenge as they travel to take on Oxted & District Women, a strong opponent that will test their resilience once more.
Player Profile: Katie Coupe
Final score: Cranleigh 1-2 Ash United
Next fixture: (A) Oxted & District, 2pm, Sunday, 6 October, Lingfield Rd. Recreation Ground
Coaches: Nick Bamford, Wayne Stevens
Team sponsors: Create-I-Ltd, Heartwork Coffee, Informed Choice, Bear Content, The Beautiful.
Photography: Bear Content | Martin Bamford
About Cranleigh FC
Cranleigh Football Club is an inclusive club and its youth teams welcomes boys and girls of all abilities, with an emphasis on fun and enjoyment. Coaching is based around a variety of games and exercises, following the latest FA models for player development.
The coaching models the club follows place emphasis on equal opportunities for all players, regardless of background or ability, and on participation rather than winning. All players receive equal playing time, are provided with the opportunity to play in all positions, and the coaching focus is on playing the ‘right way’, even if this has a negative impact on results in the short and medium term.
