We travelled to league leaders Redhill, fully expecting a tough match. A good crowd turned up, boosted by Redhill’s announcement that the game would also celebrate their girls’ football teams, a commendable initiative that other clubs could learn from, as we strive to encourage participation from all.

We were without Luke Miller, whose place was taken by Ali Fofahan, while Callum Wilson replaced the injured David Romer.

Barely had the game begun when we found ourselves 1-0 down in the 9th minute. During the build-up to that goal, we lost Kionte Gillfilian-Waul after a blow to the back of his head. Although we felt he was fouled, the referee saw it otherwise, and Kionte had to come off. Matters worsened in the 37th minute when an innocuous cross from the right found a Redhill forward, who headed the ball tamely past our goalkeeper. We had created some good chances of our own between these goals and, on one occasion, thought we might have scored, but the ball was cleared just before it crossed the line. However, just before half-time, we pulled a goal back when a free kick from Ali Fofahan was headed into his own net by a Redhill player—an unstoppable header, it must be said. Half-time: 2-1.

In the second half, we played with the wind at our backs, and it was no surprise when we equalised in the 62nd minute through our in-form striker, Carl Oblitey. Controlling the ball as the Redhill keeper advanced, Carl calmly guided it into the empty net. We were firmly in the ascendency, prompting Redhill’s manager to make three quick substitutions in an attempt to change the flow of the game.

A few minutes later, we had two excellent opportunities to take the lead, but the Redhill goalkeeper pulled off two outstanding saves from Ali Fofahan in quick succession. We continued to press, creating further half-chances, while Redhill managed only the odd foray into our half. After six minutes of added time, the referee blew for full-time, and we had secured a very creditable draw away to the league leaders.

It was incredibly satisfying to earn a well-deserved point, which keeps our current good run intact. However, we cannot afford to rest on our laurels, as we face another tough fixture next Saturday at home to Fleet Town. They’ve had a strong start to their season but are catching up on their fixtures.

It was fantastic to see so many Epsom supporters at Kiln Brow, and we hope to see even more of you at King George’s Field next Saturday. The match kicks off at 3pm, and with it being an international weekend, why not come down and support your local club?