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Monday 19 April 2010 Ryman Youth League, West Division
Another superb performance from this hungry young AFC youth side saw them pick up three points away at Hampton & Richmond. It was the third time AFC had played their neighbours this season with the Young Dons winning all three of the games.
The squad was again rotated again producing a great attitude and desire from the boys. The pitch was uneven but the teams produced a good game considering. Hampton started the better team and had more possession but never really tested Sujit Dadar in the AFC goal. The first goal came after thirty minutes as Josh Ayres won a tackle on the edge of the box before beating another defender and pulling the ball back for Juevan Spencer to fire the ball past the Hampton keeper. Both teams had further efforts biut failed to trouble the score before half time.
AFC started the second half well and dominated proceedings for long periods. Meshach Smith went close on a couple of occasions and Dan Carter had a fine effort well saved. An injury to Rhys Turner saw him replaced by Ethan Pinnock at centre half whilst the hard working Spencer made way for Ryan Thomas up front. AFC increased their lead when a set piece move came to fruition. A dan Carter near post corner was headed home by Ryan Thomas. AFC pilled on the pressure and added a third when a superb 30 yard dipping half volley from Dan Carter found the top corner. Jack Williamson was then replaced by Harry Bearman for the final 15 minutes. Credit to Hampton who fought back well and snatched what seemed like a consolation goal with six minutes remaining, then in injury time scored a second with a fine strike from 20 yards. It was though to be AFC's night as they deservedly held out for the final few seconds for a fine victory. With the under 18s defunct at the end of this season it was again a fine team performance with the spirit of a side that is very much together and it would be difficult to pick individuals out for special praise, although a special mention to Matt Wilkinson who had a busy and impressive debut. Well done to all the boys.
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