Draw for Thame at Kilburn

MATCH REPORT – Away game Monday, April 13, 2009 – South Kilburn 1, Thame United 1.

UNITED made their first ever trip to South Kilburn on Monday afternoon for their fifth game in ten days, whilst Kilburn had benefited from a 10-day rest since their previous game.

Despite the prospect that fatigue may set in after such a busy schedule, with the score 1-1 at half time, there was only ever one team that was going to win the game in the second period as United again demonstrated their high fitness levels. Alas, a winning goal was not forthcoming and United had to settle for a point, making it 21 points from their last 10 fixtures.

United started the brighter of the two teams and it was not long before they took the lead. A corner from the right caused problems for the Kilburn defence and Tom Hoskin was on hand to finish from close range, taking his tally to 13 for the season. Despite having opportunities to extend the lead and with Searl in the Thame goal rarely threatened, it was a surprise when Kilburn equalized 10 minutes before the break. United were perhaps guilty of standing off the Kilburn forward 25 yards from goal, but with back to goal no one could have expected the sharp turn and left foot shot that saw the ball sail over Searl and in to the top corner of the goal.

With the scores level at half time, United pressed forward in the second half looking for a winner. Although they had the majority of possession and the game was almost entirely played in the Kilburn half, United created few goal scoring opportunities and, when they did, they were unable to trouble the Kilburn keeper. With frustration setting-in winger Stuart Barr was sent off for two bookable offences, whilst manager Mark West was forced in to making an appearance in an attempt to secure the three points. Despite some good touches and vision, the manager?s introduction failed to change United?s fortunes in front of goal and the final whistle came with United still pressing for a winner despite being down to 10 men.

United face a trip to Rayners Lane on Saturday, (18/04/09)before facing Penn & Tylers Green away on Tuesday evening (21/04). United will be looking for two wins in an attempt to secure a top half finish that offers the prospect of FA Cup football next season.

Thame United ? Searl, Meredith, Way (El-Kassir), Hocking, Thompson, Cowan, A.Rhodes, Barr Ricketts, Jones (West) Hoskin.