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Harsh defeat as Blues end campaign

Sidley United 1 - 3 Sandhurst - ESFL Premier Division 

The 2024/25 season came to an end for Sidley United as they suffered a harsh defeat to Sandhurst in manager Mark Linch's final game in charge of the Blues.

Having struggled for a consistent side all season, Sidley had a half-fit Tony Atkin as their only sub but they started well enough, battling with Sandhurst and having the better of the chances with Andy Atkin having at least two good opportunities to open the scoring.

However it was the visitors who took the lead with their only forray forward on 31 minutes as a move down the right saw the ball squared and evade Ritchie Gray's gloves for a tap in for Thomas Thomson to give Sandhurst a half time lead.

Sidley struck level on 56 minutes with a terrific Will Witham strike and the Blues were on top and looked the more likely to grab a winning goal. However, with Andy Atkin having to be withdrawn after an hour, Tony Atkin came on to take over in goal with Gray moving into a midfield position.

And with 10 minutes to go Sandhurst restored their lead as Adam Hsuan's shot struck the near post and rolled across the line to go in off the far post. That goal deflated the Blues and Sandhurst wrapped up the game 2 minutes later as a cross from the right was missed by a Sidley defender and Alfie Field had a simple task to slot home the third goal.

Whilst this defeat feels harsh on the Blues, they have already done enough to ensure safety with both Sedlescombe Rangers and Bexhill A.A.C unable to catch the Blues with their remaining matches.

Sidley Team: Gray, L.Mote, Freeman, K.Atkin, May, Martin, Witham, Van Wyk, Brett, Ball. A.Atkin (T.Atkin).

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