Wood Reserve Take 3 Late Points

Wood emerged victorious due to a late penalty winner from Charlie Hunter against a very defensively organised Berkhamstead.In probably their biggest test for a while the only real chances in a goalless first half both fell to Luke Lane but was unable to convert.Wood went behind soon after the restart to what looked like a shove in the back on Jean Khasa at the far post. Both referee and assistant saw no infringement and the goal stood putting Wood behind for the first time in 8 games.

Immediately Wood went looking for the equaliser. Half time substitute Dean Rubinia replacing the England bound Jordan Lawal caused the oppostion problems at the back with George Hunter and Ruddock Yala driving on from midfield.

Eventually the pressure took its toll on Berkhamstead and a Wood free kick from just outside the box was converted expertly by Charlie Hunter to draw the teams level.

For the last twenty minutes it was virtually one way traffic as Rubinia had two penalty appeals turned down, Lancaster denied by the keeper after some excellent play down the right, Yala and Lane all going close before Jean Khasa was brought down inside the box and awarded a penalty which was converted by Charlie Hunter.

With eight straight wins on the bounce Wood now go into Tuesdays fixture away at Newport Pagnell knowing that a win will put them top of the league.

Reserve Assistant manager Paul Burrows said “I was very pleased with today’s performance, the lads adapted very well with a number of changes made to the squad due to first team call ups and English Schools trials. After going 1 down they boys showed great character, we kept the ball very well a created chances and much deserved the 3 points.

Team
Daniel Lewis, Jean Khasa, Martin Flannery Flannery, Ruddock Yala, Ryan Kirby(Pelly Ruddock 80), Bradley Fraser, George Hunter, Charlie Hunter, Luke Lane, Jordan Lawal(Dean Rubinia 45), Connor Lancaster.

Sub not used Daniel Longa Longa

Goal Scorer: Charlie Hunter 2(1p)