With both the manager and coach suspended, the club was forced into a number of changes. To make matters worse, skipper Adam Green was feeling unwell and unable to play.

The Salts got off to the worst possible start, with a defensive slip allowing Nathan Hogan to fire under goalkeeper Daniel O’Donovan, making it 1–0 to the Lobsters. Just a minute later, former Salt Adam Grant scored to double Redhill’s lead.

In the 22nd minute, a great run by Kionte set up Jason Bloor, who drilled a low shot past the keeper to bring the Salts back into the game at 2–1. The momentum shifted, and in the 32nd minute, a superb 18-yard strike from Will Kendal brought the Salts level at 2–2. By half-time, the game was evenly poised, with Epsom & Ewell playing the better football as the first half drew to a close.

At half-time, the Salts were forced into a substitution as Conrad Essilfie-Conduah went off injured and was replaced by Craig Dundas. However, the second half started poorly for the Salts, as Redhill restored their lead just three minutes after the restart, making it 3–2 in the 48th minute.

The game’s turning point came in the 77th minute when the referee, who had a very poor performance throughout, awarded a controversial penalty to Redhill. To compound matters, goalkeeper Daniel O’Donovan was booked and subsequently sent off. Skipper Ethan Nelson-Roberts attempted to speak to the referee but was sin-binned, leaving the Salts down to nine men.

With no choice, Kailan North stepped in as goalkeeper, but Redhill converted the penalty to make it 4–2 against the nine-man Salts. The referee’s inconsistency was glaring, as Redhill players avoided bookings while numerous Salts players were penalised.

Despite the challenges, Epsom & Ewell continued to push for another goal. Sean Michael Anderson replaced Luke Miller in the 66th minute, followed by Callum Wilson coming on for Niall Stillwell in the 83rd minute. The final substitution saw Jack Torbett replace Gillfillian-Wual.

The Salts fought bravely but could not add to their tally.

Next up: A big away day to Jersey!

Photo Cr: Spencer Mitchell