Haywards FC vs Orpington Athletic
0 - 4
09 September 2018 · Metropolitan Sunday Football League<br>Division One
Away friendly match played on 09 September 2018.
Kicked off at 10:30 AM
0-4
vs Haywards FC
Away friendly match
Orpington finished off their pre-season with a third consecutive victory and clean sheet. Three goals in the first half all but settled the match, with Mike Adamou securing a fourth in the second half to guarantee the victory.
Orpington started the match missing goalkeeper and manager, Matt Utton and newly indoctrinated left-back, Tom Butler. However, the depth of Orpington's squad meant that cover was more than adequate. Laurence Downs and Dean De Cabral shared a half each in the sticks and swapped positions to cover at left back at half time with Harry Utton coming on in the same position with a quarter of the game remaining.
Orpington started the game strongly and immediately put Haywards defence under pressure, with 4 corners in the first 10 minutes. The pressure paid off straight away, when Tom Braithwaite picked out a great through pass to Tom Smart who drove forward, rounded the 'keeper and buried the chance.
Orpington's second goal was a long range effort from in-form new comer, Ben Blyghton. Picking up the ball 30 yards from goal, Blyghton exploited the 'keeper's poor positioning and curled in a fantastic long range strike.
On top throughout the half and with the constant threat of the front four, Orpington deservedly secured the third goal just before half time, with Adamaou picking up where he left off last season and netting his first of the match and of the 2018/19 season.
De Cabral donned the 'keeper's jersey at the start of the second half, with Downs replacing him at left back. Orpington were not the dominant force they were in the first half and had to ride out a good 15 minute spell of Haywards' pressure. However, Haywards could not break down the solid back line and with only a quarter of the game remaining, Adamou settled the game beyond all doubt with a glorious long range strike, after the 'keeper sent out a terrible goal kick.
Orpington have had their best start to a season in 4 years, with a 100% win rate, 9 goals scored and no goals conceded. However, the team will be fully aware that the performances and results will count for little if they do not replicate this form during the season. Orpington have come a long way and it seems now is the time to take the next step and challenge for honours.
Orpington open their league campaign on Sunday 23rd September against Inter Cross at home.