Hampton and Richmond Borough battled to come through the firm test against AFC Croydon Athletic 4-2 in the FA Cup 2nd round qualifier.
The Beavers combatted a first half deficit, crunching tackles and a torrential half-time downpour to overcome a tricky Rams side. The magic of the cup whistled its way through the Beveree on a turbulent Saturday of weather. Equally as turbulent was the match that unfolded. A game of passion, screaming finishes and more cards than T.G Jones, the fans were treated to a spectacle. One the home fans will be delighted with as Hampton and Richmond borough will be in the hat for the next round.
It was the South London side who took an unexpected lead in the 22nd minute. A Kadell Daniel freekick on the edge of the box was a poor one, but a fortunate deflection off the wall caused a scramble in the six yard box. James Holden did well to keep out the first effort but alas, the Rams captain Luke Dreher was on hand to bury it into an empty net.
The Beavers never let their heads drop, however. They knew they were the better side and it was not long before that quality told. The ever-dynamic Harry Gardner applied pressure on the Rams backline allowing Sam Deadfield a yard of space. A floated ball to the back post found Grego-Cox who showed his class to dink the imposing Tangara in the Rams goal. A swift response from the Beavers and just what the home fans were after.
Challenges flew in, a host of yellow cards were brandished; this was a knockout tie, and the tension was palpable. Alan Julian would likely say that his side had the better of the first 45 minutes but they struggled to make their possession count and were unable to find the lead.They were made to rue the missed chances as former Beaver Daniel lashed home from range to put his side up at the break.
Strong words were needed by the home manager at half time. The Beavers were favourites, they needed to show it.
It was a bright and breezy start for the second half for the home side. With the Rams pinned in their own half, it was only a matter of time before parity was restored. Deadfield, enjoying a storming game, constructed a pocket of space to bury the ball past a helpless Tangara.
From there, the floodgates opened.
Craig Fasanmade added to his ever-growing goal tally to put the Beavers ahead. A cross from the left found the inform striker all alone a yard in front of the goal. He could not miss; even if it did come off his hip.
A brief stint of pressure from the Rams, epitomised by an outstanding reflex save from Beavers No. 1 James Holden, had to be weathered by the home side. But with only 2 minutes left of normal time to play Ronan Silva put the game to bed, providing Alan Julian with some metaphorical paracetamol after the headache of a match.
And so, one step closer to the first round proper and an unbeaten run extended to six games. Here’s to hoping it continues.
Don't miss the chance to see Hampton and Richmond Borough when they play at home on October 4th against Slough Town. Get your tickets here.
By Paul Edwards