One of the greatest victories in the history of football occurred at the world famous Co-Op ground yesterday, as Bexley Athletic stole 3 points with a last minute winner. The South East Londoners now have high hopes for the season ahead after getting off the mark for 2016/17 at the second attempt.
Dan Davis (with a growing reputation as the best manager in the world) stuck with the slightly controversial 3-5-2 formation. With Newnes sensibly absent, last minute alterations were made as top goal scorer Catinho was sent up top with Real Madrid prospect Dan Mcgovern. New signings Sevenoaks started at wingback, with Rob skippering the side from the back three behind a strong midfield.
The game started as a tense affair as both teams tried to find their touch on a small and bobbly pitch. It quickly become apparent Baldon were going to be no push overs, but Olli, Chris and Dan were giving Bexley a strong foothold in midfield. The wingbacks were offering decent width but the small pitch was making it difficult to find space to play in the danger men up top. Bexley looked to set pieces, with Chris managing to test the keeper from 30 yards.
On the side line Alladyce was conducting the substutions to keep Bexley fresh. Jack was bought on adding no extra height to the attack; but delivered additional pressing. Bryan was introduced and decided a yellow card was the way forward, but did take the ball in his 50/50 tackle. Up the other end, Dan was worked hard with two saves from close range to ensure the scores were 0-0 at half time. Pete then fell over like a sack of potatoes and was subbed as punishment.
Tactics for the second half were planned meticulously at half time as Pete’s injury forced a switch back to 4-4-2. Perhaps controversially, two of Bexley’s strongest players; Lewis and Sevenoaks were kept on the bench to be introduced for a late push. This looked to be unwise as Bexley were struggling to open Baldon up. Despite some good midfield play the final balls and set pieces were not connecting and up front no one was anticipating the inevitable keeper fumbles.
The, a devastating blow which would have seen off a weaker team. After a period of pressure comprising a decent penalty shout and a disallowed goal; Baldon took the lead as Bexley failed to defend a free-kick and were punished at the far post. This sparked a remarkable mentality switch as Bexley upped their game leading to an equaliser worthy of the Champions League. A ball well worked down the right by Chris sent back to Sevenoaks who crossed for Catinho to lob the keeper with a header. 1-1, Game On.
Bexley’s record goal scorer EGL was introduced not boasting the greatest of fitness. With Baldon tiring, it was anticipated a counter attack could secure the three points. With the game in the balance, Sean decided to irritate the opposition to good effect, and Bexley defensively rode out a period of pressure before turning the tables on their opponent. This game could go either way and the fans were on the edge of their seats.
Then, the most dramatic of finishes with some class at both ends of the pitch. Dan claimed a Baldon free kick and arrowed a clearance around the Baldon centre back and Elton was in on goal. Despite being heavier, older and greyer, EGL showed he’s still got it when it counts to lob the keeper and take the win for his team.
In his post-match interview, manager Davis said “First of all, the goalkeeper was sensational. Keepers like ours are worth 10-15 points per season and you saw that today.”
“The entire squad were unbelievable today. The centre backs were absolute monsters, midfield class, and up top they never stopped working and believing”
“The target is to beat the 15 points we earned last season, once we’ve done that, we will look higher. Who knows what will happen this season”
Bexley return to the Hall Place arena next week against Old Roan reserves who have a 100% record from their opening two games.
