That game was decided by a penalty very late on – a penalty that video footage clearly shows is no more a penalty than I am a little green alien from outer space. I make no secret of my frustration. We all understand referees are human, decisions are made in a split second, but when you see the footage afterwards and it looks so clearly wrong, it is incredibly hard to take.
What makes it worse is the performance we had put in. Away to one of the league’s early pacesetters, we were disciplined, organised and more than matched them across the pitch. We created good chances, defended superbly and were fully deserving of a point, if not more. To have that taken away by such a late decision is gutting for everyone – players, management and supporters alike.
Unfortunately this is not the first time this season either. Looking back at other incidents, I would say decisions that appear wrong in hindsight have already cost us four points. In a league as competitive as this one, every point matters, and it is frustrating to keep falling the wrong side of those fine margins. But we must move on and not just feel sorry for ourselves. It has happened, and there is nothing we can do now, we must focus on what lies ahead.
That said, those who travelled to Weston will know it was an excellent performance and a reminder that we are not far away. Our biggest challenge remains scoring enough goals to turn these displays into wins, but I remain confident that will soon turn around.
We have no league game tomorrow because of the FA Cup, but instead we have arranged a friendly at The Meadow against Bedford Town, another step two side who play in the National League North. Kick-off is 1.00pm with entry at £5 for adults and £1 for Under 18s. A good test, good preparation for our next league outing at home to Enfield Town next Saturday, and a great chance for supporters to come along and watch more live football.
The women’s first team were also at home last weekend and despite holding Cambridge United 1-1 at half time, the visitors found a couple of second half goals to win the tie 1-3 on the day. We were looking forward to welcoming Charlton Athletic Academy to The Meadow this weekend in the FA WNL Cup, but sadly Charlton have withdrawn from the fixture and so Chesham take the three points. Those points may well secure us a place in the FA WNL Plate – we will see after the weekend. Next up for the women is a trip to Wycombe Wanderers in the Adobe Women’s FA Cup on Sunday 5th October.
Away from the pitch, our brilliant volunteers are already in full preparation mode for our annual Fireworks Night on Friday 7th November. Tickets will be the same price as last year and will be available soon. It is always one of the great community nights in the Chesham calendar and I hope to see as many of you there as possible. The following evening, on Saturday 8th November, we have our Quiz Night in The Chess Suite – always a fun evening and another great way to support the club.
Talking of The Chess Suite, don’t forget that we now have live football on the televisions for supporters to enjoy. On Saturdays there is a happy hour ahead of our home games, so do come along, enjoy some of the best-priced drinks in town, and spend some time with fellow supporters before heading out to cheer the team on.
Thank you as always for your incredible support. See you tomorrow for the Bedford game, or next week when Enfield Town come to The Meadow.
Peter Brown
