Wendover booked their place in the next round of the Dick Hopkins Memorial cup with a deserved 3-0 win over Marlow United Lions.
We were excellent in the first half, racing into a 2-0 lead and arguably should have been further ahead. Ed opened the scoring after getting on the end of a superb ball from Ben, before Rajan produced a stunning strike from outside the box that flew into the net. Wendover matched Marlow physically and had them well covered defensively throughout the half, with Harry and Ed causing constant problems down the wings.
Marlow came out much stronger after the break and made the contest more physical, but most of their opportunities came from Wendover mistakes rather than sustained pressure. Sully was in excellent form when called upon, making several smart saves and showing great decision making and distribution. At the other end, Wendover continued to create chances and could easily have added two or three more goals before Rajan grabbed his second to put the game beyond doubt.
The defence was solid as ever, with Megan dependable throughout, Harley tough in the tackle, Robbie providing strength at the back and Romi impressing in an unfamiliar full-back role with a strong and tenacious display. In midfield, Rajan, Rory and Ben gave the team energy and bite, while Harry, Aksh, Erick and Ed kept Marlow on the back foot with their running and positive attacking play.
Player of the Match: Rajan Mukherjee, for two excellent goals, including a first-half screamer, and an all-round influential performance.
A strong team performance and another sign that the squad is beginning to gel well ahead of the league campaign. Onto the next round of the cup and a league fixture next weekend.