Rams bow out of FA Cup at first hurdle
10:39am Monday 5th September 2011 in Ryman League By Karen Muir
Croydon Athletic’s run in the FA Cup ended at the first hurdle in an uninspiring 1-0 defeat to Chatham Town.
Chances were few and far apart as both defences were generally on top and it was 30 minutes before either goalkeeper was called into action.
A pass was played to Dave Stevens, who laid the ball off to Kery Kedze who let fly from 20 yards but home keeper Adam Molloy pushed it over the bar.
From the resulting corner Jamie England’s excellent delivery was met by David Graves but his header was cleared from off the line.
In the 35th minute, the Rams were dealt a blow when influential midfielder England was forced off with a recurrence of a groin injury. As the half ended Chatham exerted some pressure but their shots at goal were easily handled.
The second half began with Chatham on the front foot but Croydon were coping well with the threat.
After one fine run down the wing from Chatham a cross was directed towards goal but Colin Hartburn was on hand to clear off the line.
Dave King in the Croydon goal made a couple of saves but it was Chatham that got the break through.
A corner was played to the far post and Ryan Laker knocked it back and the ball was scrambled over the line, with Chris Hill claiming the last touch.
Croydon tried desperately to respond but it was just not their day and they never really looked like scoring.
In the end Chatham saw out the rest of the game without any worrying moments and progress to a home tie with Worthing Croydon Athletic: Dave King, Colin Hartburn, Rhys Coleman, David Graves, Jon Cartledge, Elliott Jones, Tony Cuff, Jamie England (31 mins Taurean Roberts), Billy Marshall (65 mins James Fray), David Stevens (65 mins Liam McDowell), Kery Kedze. Subs not used: Rob Carter, Michael Johnson, Byron Brown
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