On Saturday January 3rd, Hampton & Richmond Borough will take on Chesham United for the first match of 2026 at the Bev.
HRBFC come into the match having picked up all three points away from home in an impressive Boxing Day display against Farnborough. The 2-0 win was Dowse’s first since his return, and the goals from Fasanmade and Lacey could have easily been added to, had Max Kretzschmar’s debut effort not been spoiled by the offside flag.
Dowson continues to make improvements to his squad, and the latest signing Jordan Greenidge, a tall striker who joined from Slough Town, made his debut in the final minutes of added time.
Stoppage time also saw the welcome return of defender Paul Field, who had been out since the 21st of October after suffering a knee injury in the defeat to Hemel Hempstead.
11th-placed Chesham United come into this match in mixed form as their league position would suggest. They also enjoyed a boxing day victory, over rivals Hemel Hempstead. An 81st minute strike from Karl Oliyide was enough to secure the win for the Generals.
Their last four results have all been decided by one goal, winning two at home against Hemel and Dorking, and one away, against Horsham, and losing at home to Dover.
Before their Dorking win on the 29th of November, they went almost the whole month without a victory, picking up just one point in four games, as well as exiting the FA Trophy at home to National League North side AFC Telford United.
Chesham have the opportunity to build on their latest result as they travel to Slough Town on Tuesday 30th December before visiting the Bev.
We last faced Chesham on the August bank holiday, winning late on courtesy of a Reece Grego-Cox poacher’s finish, after the hosts cancelled out Davide Rodari’s spectacular opener.
Last season, both away sides won, so let’s hope this season won’t see history repeat itself!
Be sure to support the lads in the opening match of 2026!
Secure your tickets HERE!
Up The Beavers!
By Jack Lonergan