Cliftonville Mens 1s went into the last game of the season away to Ashford full of confidence, coming off the back of a hard fought draw to league winners Folkestone the previous week.
After a small delay, the day started with the team heading down to Ashford in the battle bus in high spirits.
The game started and Ville quickly went on the offensive putting pressure on Ashfords defence. In a similar fashion to the defeat at Canterbury, Ville managed to create a lot of chances resulting in short corners. Unfortunately, similar to the Canterbury game Cliftonville were unable to take advantage from these opportunities, keeping Ashford in the contest.
Still, Ville pushed and were nearly rewarded by a deflected effort from forward and wood awards head judge Seb Cox, to which the keeper made a great save. This pressure finally reaped its rewards, with Dilkes slinging a ball into the D from the 5 metre line which was promptly stopped spun and slotted home by Lenny Dalrymple for his 3rd goal in as many games. The first half did not come without pressure from Ashford who managed to win multiple short corners of their own, but a well disciplined Cliftonville side kept them at bay and went into half time with a 1-0 lead.
On trial Manager Dan Vinson who had clearly taken fashion advice from Gareth Southgate gave words of encouragement at the break. Ville hoping unlike Southgate’s teams that they could get this win over the line.
With the second half underway Ashford really went on the offensive and the team had to work hard to limit their chances.
Some fantastic cat like saves from goal keeper Jamie Ullyett kept Cliftonville’s lead. Just like his draft proof doors nothing was getting through him this game. And nothing did. Cliftonville kept Ashford out which secured the 3 points and the double over Ashford this season. With the game now over and the boys suited and booted ready for their epic road trip back home, the 2024/25 season drew to a close.
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