The game encountered a minor hitch before kick-off, as one of the assistant referees broke down on their way to the match. Fortunately, the other assistant was able to pick up a replacement official en route, ensuring the game went ahead as planned.

With regular goalkeeper Dan sidelined due to injury, young Kevin Kardel stepped in and impressed once again by keeping a clean sheet for the Salts.

The game began scrappily, as both sides understood the importance of the fixture. In a tense first half, chances were limited. Skipper Adam Green received a booking for Epsom & Ewell, while Spelthorne Sports picked up a couple of yellow cards themselves. The best chance of the half fell to Nathan Best, whose shot grazed the crossbar. However, neither team could break the deadlock, and it remained goalless at half-time.

The second half saw the game spring to life. In the 56th minute, the Salts were awarded a penalty after Spelthorne Sports were reduced to 10 men due to a second yellow card. Will Kendall stepped up to take the penalty, but his effort was saved by the Spelthorne goalkeeper.

Substitutions followed, with Craig Dundas replacing Conrad Essilfie-Conduah in the 63rd minute, and Tobi Falodi coming on for Ethan Nelson-Roberts in the 81st minute. Spelthorne were forced into a goalkeeper change shortly after and then went down to nine men following another dismissal.

The Salts picked up a late booking in added time, with Kionte Gillfillian-Waul shown a yellow card in the 90+1 minute.

As the game neared its conclusion, the breakthrough finally came. A high ball into the box from Nicolas Bostan was flicked on by Will Kendall, and substitute Craig Dundas was in the right place to fire the ball home. His late goal secured all three points for the Salts.