Match Report
by Robin Piper
Northwood made a winning start to their pre-season programme as they overcame Conference South newcomers Wimbledon.
Woods started well and they took the lead on 10 minutes as Adrian Abramian set off on a mazy run before slotting the ball past Dons’ goalkeeper Jack Turner.
Wimbledon pressed for the equaliser and Elliott Godfrey had a couple of chances but was unable to beat Mitch Swain in the Northwood goal.
However, Godfrey’s persistence paid off as he capitalised on a defensive mix-up to draw the visitors level in the 24th minute.
The balance of play remained fairly even for the remainder of the half although Billy Dunn and Sam Hatton went close for the visitors.
Both sides made a number of changes during the half-time break and Woods’ substitute Abdul Yoki was immediately on the attack but he was denied by Turner.
Wimbledon’s Evans Kouassi and Tommy Tolady were guilty of spurning excellent chances whilst Yoki’s long range effort flew narrowly over.
Woods proceeded to threaten the Dons’ goal and Terry Davies saw his shot from an acute angle rebound off the post whilst Yoki drew another save from Turner.
But Wimbledon were guilty of missing a couple of gilt-edged chances as Evans Kouassi and Tommy Tolady were off target.
And Northwood showed the visitors how it should be done when they regained the lead on 71 minutes as Davies charged down Turner’s attempted clearance following a poor back-pass.
Chances continued to be created at either end and James Folkes had a shot saved by Swain whilst Yoki went close with a cheeky near post free-kick.
Woods’ Anthony Page tested replacement ‘keeper Liam Poupart before Tolady squandered another glorious chance to equalise in the penultimate minute of a contest that proved a useful workout for both sides.
Photos: James Brown |
