News

Knaphill 1 - 1 Alton

02 Sep 2024

Match report by Dave Hawtin

Having been second best in last weekend’s fixture Alton travelled to early season pacesetters Knaphill and dominated the entire 90 minutes on Saturday.

From the outset they were on the front foot. Adam Poynter’s rasping shop from inside the box was athletically tipped over the bar by the home keeper inside two minutes.

The start set the tone for most of the game yet the visitors found themselves a goal down on 9 minutes. A free kick some 25 yards out was delightfully flighted into the top left hand corner giving keeper Douglas no chance.

Back came the visitors and only numerous saves, even more last ditch blocks by defenders and a couple of really good chances not taken at either back post, kept the home side ahead at the interval.

Alton continued to dominate possession and territory and played some delightful football at times using the full width of the pitch to stretch the opponent, giving both full backs a torrid afternoon.

On 59 minutes they were finally rewarded for their endeavours. Poynter again faced up his defender and having pushed into the box was tripped. Penalty. Up stepped Perry Coles but he lifted his shot over the bar.

Was it going to be one of those days?

No. Just five minutes later and finally Alton were level. Coles' corner from the right was met by the powerful figure of Tolu Ajayi-Obe and he directed his header into the corner of the net.

No sitting back now. Young substitute Joe Goddard had joined the game on the hour and he added fresh legs and pace down the left adding to the home side’s troubles.

The game eventually ended all square and the home side’s defence should be recognised for their work rate, determination and willingness to block everything thrown at them.

As for the visitors, they continue to grow as a squad. Today to a man they were outstanding right around the pitch. They have been given the very toughest of starts to the season, away games at the three sides who finished 2nd 3rd and 4th last season before the end of August. You can read into that what you like, and of course it will not define the whole season necessarily, but respect where it is due.

Alton continue league action tomorrow night (Tuesday) when they travel to Spelthorne Sports. 7.45pm kick off.

Match Highlights from Academy TV