Staines’ impressive unbeaten run at all levels came to an end in a tight match against this season’s cup nemesis, Hayes & Yeading United, who included two players from their Conference squad, Jake Lovell and Andre Costa.
Staines started well, sending in a couple of dangerous corners, but United soon settled, with Costa finding space to fire just over the bar. What proved to be the game’s only goal came on 18 minutes, when Nathan Webb wriggled through the home defence and finished well.
As Staines tried hard to get back on terms, Ford thought he had scored, but his tap-in was ruled offside.
King took over as captain in the last 22 minutes, when Marlowe was withdrawn, and Staines went all out for the equaliser. Suika dragged a low shot just past the post, Nelson forced a fine save from Grant, who then thwarted Suika’s follow-up, and Nelson had another good effort blocked.
Staines might have had an advantage in the 84th minute, when Suika was challenged by Grant some distance outside his box, but it was ruled a fair tackle and the chance and a probable red card was gone.
So United won a very close game, having just about shaded the play, one which both sides agreed would have made a good final to this competition.
Report courtesy of Steve Parsons at Staines Town FC.
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