Farnham Town manager Paul Johnson was pleased with his side’s efforts after they won 3-1 at Fleet Town in the Combined Counties Premier Division South on Saturday.
Johnson’s side took the lead in the 29th minute when Owen Dean prodded home from close range. Shamal Edwards made it 2-0 on 43 minutes when he headed home at the back post.
Fleet pulled a goal back in the 62nd minute through an own goal – the first time Farnham have conceded in the league this season – but substitute Lewis Flatman sealed the three points for Town when he made it 3-1 on 83 minutes.
“In the first half Fleet sat back and had 11 men behind the ball,” said Johnson.
“I was a bit surprised by that as it was a local derby so I expected them to have more of a go – maybe they had damage limitation in mind.
“That meant it probably wasn’t the most exciting game for the neutral. The first goal was a bit scrappy, but the second goal was well worked.
“The second half was the first time this season we’ve come under pressure, but we were never in danger of not winning the game and we came through it.
“We’ve now conceded our first league goal – so we don’t have that hanging over us.”
The victory came at a cost for Town, with Edwards and Jack Dean picking up injuries.
“I doubt Shamal or Jack will be available on Saturday,” said Johnson. “With Jack’s injury we’re short at the back – we might look to get a player in on a dual registration.”
Johnson’s side have won their first six league games this season – scoring 21 goals and conceding just one – but they are second in the league because of their impressive runs in the FA Cup and FA Vase.
Farnham trail leaders Jersey Bulls by four points – but have four games in hand.
Johnson’s side host Tadley Calleva at The Memorial Ground in the Combined Counties Premier Division South on Saturday (3pm), before hosting Knaphill next Tuesday evening (October 10) in the league (7.45pm).
“We’ve got two good tests coming up in the league as I expect Tadley to be in and around the play-offs and Knaphill will also want to be in the top five,” said Johnson.