In near-perfect conditions on Saturday, Oakwood travelled to league leaders Redhill in what proved to be a hard-fought and entertaining encounter. Before kick-off, both sets of players and parents observed a respectful two-minute silence to honour those who lost their lives in war.

Redhill took an early lead with a free header, though Oakwood goalkeeper Thompson may feel he could have done better. The home side responded brilliantly, with Niko Joseph finishing off a fine team move to level the score.

Redhill’s direct, long-ball approach — reminiscent of the famous Wimbledon side of the 1990s — caused problems for the Oakwood defence throughout. A booming clearance from the Redhill keeper somehow turned into an assist, catching Oakwood off guard and restoring the visitors’ lead at 2–1.

Despite playing the better football, Oakwood were left frustrated as chance after chance went begging. Just before the interval, Redhill extended their advantage with a speculative long-range effort that found its way into the net, sending the league leaders into the break 3–1 ahead.

The second half began in similar fashion, with Oakwood on the front foot. From a long throw by Daniel Ritchie, Joseph was quickest to react, netting his second of the game to make it 3–2 and give us renewed hope.

Oakwood continued to press for an equaliser, creating numerous opportunities, but the finishing touch proved elusive. Despite their impressive play, it was Redhill’s more direct style that ultimately prevailed, ensuring they left with all three points to remain top of the table.

Oakwood can take pride in their performance and the quality of football they displayed — on another day, the result could easily have gone their way.

1 Redhill FC U14 Comets 8 6 1 1 19
2 Ashtead Colts U14 Rovers 7 5 1 1 16
3 Oakwood Youth U14 Red 9 3 4 2 13
4 Bookham Colts U14 8 4 1 3 13
5 Metropolitan Police Y 8 3 2 3 11
6 Stoneleigh Athletic U14 7 1 1 5 4
7 Teddington Athletic U14 9 0 2 7 2

OAKWOOD FC

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