FARNHAM TOWN 1,

NORTH GREENFORD 0

THIS was an important win for Farnham at a sticky Memorial Ground on Saturday. Other results went their way, keeping a decent gap between them and the drop-zone in the Combined Counties League Premier Division.

North Greenford were no pushovers, having reached a comfortable mid-table slot after a good month.

Farnham could do with a repeat result this Saturday against Raynes Park who are only three places off the bottom.

John Lancashire was back in Town’s starting line-up after a lengthy knee injury and played an important role, as well as having an assist in the only goal of the game.

Both defences were firmly in control in the first half, but it was Farnham who made the vital breakthrough after 20 minutes. A straight clearance from keeper Richard Ossai was helped on by Lancashire and Elliott Cardona was perfectly positioned to get behind the Raynes Park defence and round keeper James Harry before slotting into an empty net.

Ossai made two crucial saves from midfielder James Simmonds and in the second half, the well-organised Town defence came under increasing pressure.

Greenford substitute Tobi Shodipo, a youth player, twice came close to equalising, first with a shot that fizzed over the crossbar and then a close-range effort that was well blocked by Ossai.

Five minutes from time, a fierce, swerving strike by Simmonds was heading for the corner before Ossai pulled off a magnificent save to protect his side’s narrow lead.

On the stroke of full time, centre-back Guy Ansah-Palmer did find the back of the home net when he challenged Ossai for a high ball, but referee Michael Begley ruled that the keeper had been fouled.

Farnham had their strong and committed defence to thank for this win. Jack Cox again played well in front of the back four, cutting out numerous attacks.

Walton & Hersham, currently fourth in the table, visit Farnham on Tuesday.