Despite the 1-0 defeat there was plenty to be optimistic about as Steve Bateman’s side of experienced first teamers, enthusiastic youngsters and eager trialists gave a good account of themselves.

FC had the first attack of the game when a forceful Jamie Rudd dash ending with the midfielder hitting the ball just over the bar. A couple of minutes later, a speculative shot by the Chesham full back took a deflection which keeper James Weatherill saved with his chest. The 10th minute saw two quick fire chances fall to the away side with Kyle Anthony blocking the first opportunity and then watching as the follow up was blasted wide.

Chesham, with new boy Bradley Wadkins in their ranks, continued to press and a shot from the wing on 18 minutes had the power but not the accuracy to trouble James Weatherill. This pressure continued with several chances on the FC goal which gained the away side a couple of corners but caused no real threat to the goal. A free kick for Chesham brought out a great save by Weatherill and as the half drew to a close, FC had their best chance. Lynton Goss hit a quality shot which the keeper could only palm to Gareth Price with the winger skying the ball over from close range.

The second half saw FC shoot towards the covered end and good work again from Jamie Rudd fed midfield partner Goss who headed just over the bar. Chesham should have taken the lead on 54 minutes but a wild stab at the ball with a clear view of the goal was a relief to the home team. As the half progressed Lynton Goss again shot on sight with a low shot and this was followed by a header from Tom Willment who was enjoying a fine debut.

As the clock ticked down, various changes were made as they so often do in these friendly matches and FC introduced the returning Lamar Simpson, in addition to youngster Ken Feyi and Emmanuel Duku. It was not long after this that Chesham scored however. An innocent looking shot hit a divot, fooling James Weatherill who could only watch the ball trickle into the net. It was akin to the home goal conceded versus Beaconsfield last season and not really deserved on the equal balance of play.

The very popular Will Kirkpatrick was given a chance to shine in the final few minutes of the game on the left hand side of midfield with the referee bringing down the curtain on a very enjoyable afternoon’s entertainment soon after.

Squad
James Weatherill
Alvin Rajaram
Danny Murphy
Ben Bateman
Tom Willment
Kyle Anthony
Lynton Goss
Davis Haule
Brian Haule
Jamie Rudd
Gareth Price

Subs
Lamar Simpson
Emmanuel Duku
Ken Feyi
Rob Tomlin
Will Kirkpatrick

Unavailable
Aston Goss
Danny Burnell
Jeanmal Prosper
Terry Dixon
John Montgomery
Adam Logie