Match Report - AFC Rushden & Diamonds 1 - 0 SCTFC

After a difficult few weeks for Sutton, and with no win in their last 3 games, they had to take a trip to Northamptonshire to take on newcomers AFC Rushden and Diamond. They are a team stuck at the foot of the table, and a team we have already beaten at home this season, a great opportunity for Sutton to get back up and running.

Cameron Stuart’s starting 11 was as follows: Brown, Christophorou, Carter-Bryne, Lima, Beresford, Doyle, McSkeane, Collins, Tague, Hilton and Edmunds.

It was a slow start by both teams, but Edmunds tried his luck with an overhead kick which nestled on top of the net. Tague went close, but his effort was wide of the post.

Sutton were struggling with their passing game as the pitch was poor and did not suit Suttons style of play.

On the half hour mark, Hilton made a great turn in the box. He lost the defender before firing towards goal. Heath managed to claim at the near post.

Diamonds pushed Sutton back with some good play, and hearts were in Suttons mouths when they tried to claim a handball in the penalty area. Luckily, the referee waved play on.

41 minutes on the clock and Diamonds nearly took the lead. Sutton lost possession on the edge of the area, Emery chipped Brown who was out of goal, but Brown managed to get a hand on it while he retreated.

It was an even first half with not many chances, but either side could have put themselves in front with better finishing.

Early in the second half Tague was replaced by Gibson.

Hurley was brought on to replace the injured Christophorou, after a 50/50 clash saw Aris come the worst off.

McSkeane cut a ball back into the penalty area where Collins was upended to gift Sutton a penalty.

Hilton fired low, but it was a weak shot which the keeper easily saved.

Diamonds were more involved this half, with the penalty save re- energising them. It was competitive all over the pitch, although the referee was blowing the whistle for every challenge which made the game a bit fragmented.

McSkeane did well to beat the defender and ran into the penalty area. He fired low to the near post which the keeper saved after an initial fumble.

McSkeane was replaced by Byrne on 90 minutes.

As Sutton were pushing for the winner, Diamonds beat the back line and Johnston ran through to fire beyond Brown in the bottom left corner. 1-0 Diamonds.

It was the last action of the game, and a devastating blow for Sutton. We looked like getting at least a draw but it was not to be, and with 4 games without a win it will be a worry for Cameron and his team.

#COYR