A cool dry day saw us return to action as we welcomed. St Francis Rangers to UBMF for the first time in 15 years. Beeding were missing top scorer Kris Harding and the injured Justin Gregory Drew McGill and Harry Smith, so in came recent signing James Sandford for his first start, and a recalled Ben Ward to the starting line up.
Beeding were quickly into stride, and a couple of chances had gone before Jamie was again on hand to finish and give us an early lead. However, the young St. Francis Rangers side showed plenty of quality to start creating chances of their own, and an excellent diving stop from keeper Banks was the only thing between and an equaliser before the break.
An entertaining second half ensued with Beeding searching for a second to kill the game, and St. Francis maintaining a constant threat that fully tested our back 5. Subs Chris Barnett, Henry Hayden and Charlie Townsend freshened things up and each may have scored but the second goal was illusive, and Rangers were showing plenty as they went looking to get something from the game.
In the end we were grateful for the 3 points, and extend our unbeaten League run to 10 games. In an even contest, a draw would have fair as St Francis were impressive and improving fast. They are going to feature in the second half of the season.
It says something when your MOM comes from one of the defenders, they had been seriously rested and can be pleased to keep a clean sheet. The ever consistent Lewie Jamieson was outstanding, and deservedly shaded it.
Elsewhere runaway Leaders Montpelier Villa were coming from behind to win it in the last minute against second place Copthorne. The win taking us back into second place, 24 pts and 7 adrift of Villa, with a game in hand.
Next up, a break in League action as we go to Littlehampton Utd in the 1st Round of the SCFL Div 2 Cup.