Two goals from Zain Thomas and a stunning strike by Regan saw Sutton United progress to the 2nd round of the Open cup with a hard fought 3-1 win against good Sporting Athletic side.
Sutton started with the same 11 that won last week, but it was the visitors that broke the deadlock with a well finished goal after 20minutes. While Sutton were playing some good football the lead was well deserved as Sporting were first to every ball and competing better than Sutton. While Sutton had a few efforts on goal none of them worried the Sporting keeper and they took a well deserved lead into the half time break.
Sutton started the second half well but were unable to get a footing in the game.
With a change required Dan Murrain was sent on and United started to hold the ball better and apply some concerted pressure. However, it wasn’t until a change of formation with Josh, Dan and Zain playing up front in a 3-4-3 formation and Harry moving into the centre of midfield Sutton started to create some real chances.
Within minutes Sutton equalised when Zain brought the teams level with the simplest of finishes after a nice flick on from Dan at the near post.
With Harry and Carl working well in the centre and Ross making some great runs down the right it wasn’t long until a second goal came when super sub Regan pounced on a poor clearance to rifle the ball into the net from 10 yards out.
With confidence growing Sutton were in full control and all the lads were playing some good football. With a move back to a 4-4-2 formation with Oscar joining the action on the right of defence, it wasn’t long Sutton sealed the game when Zain again pounced on a blocked shot from Miles to score from close range.
Good 2nd Half performance from the lads but full credit to Sporting who made it a hard game. League Shield next week.
