MAIDSTONE TOWN vs Horley

Town went into the match knowing that a win would secure the League title but found it tough going against a Horley team determined to test their title credentials. On a pitch that can only be described as unsuitable for grazing sheep Town set about thei game well.

Passing on the suface was tough and it was clear that Town were the only team trying to do so and they created an immidiate opening when Nicola Morris threaded a pass through to Aimee Churchill who's first time effort unsurprisingly bobbled up and the shot was hit wide. It was Churchill who was again in the thick of things creating space in the box only to drag her shot wide of the goal.

Horley who had drafted in players from Lewes Ladies FC (who play in the league above) for this game were content on soaking up the pressure and then looking to play direct football when in possession.

Town did grab the opening goal on 10 minutes when some neat play on the left saw Churchill feed Morris who crossed dangerously towards the goal and when the Horley goalkeeper failed to gather the ball Gemma Sullivan was on hand to poke the ball home. Town continued to press and the host were constantly on the back foot but efforts from Churchill and Morris came to nothing. Nicola Bulless can close to doubling the lead from a corner but her header was too high.

The first half ended 1-0 to Town but they knew Horley would come out and make it hard for Town in the second half. It was clear from the kick off what tactics Horley would impliment in the second period, as they hoofed the ball directly into Town's box. More of the long ball was to follow with Horley using the advantage of the slope to create panic in the Town backline and it worked. Another hopefull ball into the box from the halfway line was meet by one of the Lewes Ladies players who slotted home.

Town rallied and within two minutes were back in the lead again after a nice move saw Churchill free in the area and her shot was partially saved and heading towards the goal but like all good strikers should, Rachel Brewer follwed in to make sure the ball crossed the line. Town then pressed for a thrid which on reflection may have been enough but Horley continued to press and ask questions.

Horley had not created any clear cut chances but with Town down to ten players due to an injury they grabbed their equaliser when yet another ball into the box was not delt with and again the 'guest' forward popped up to score.

The game became very stretched with Town creating half chances to score but nothing clear cut and it ended 2-2.

A dissapointing day but in the circumstances it could be a valuable point depending on results next weekend. Town also know that their destiny is in their own hands and will have to ensure that they are ready for next weekend as for the second season in a row it comes down to the last game of the season.