The game was important to both teams, as they sought to confirm their playoff places. The weather conditions, including wind, rain, and hail, had a severe impact on how the game was played.

The game started at a quick pace, with the first chance falling to the Raiders, which saw a fifth-minute Jordan Stoddart header being palmed away by Spa keeper Joe Stockton.

Spa scored first in the seventh minute. Spa’s Josh Hurdman was played through and shot past the onrushing Raiders keeper, Charlie Emery. Raiders came close two minutes later, Adam Taylor going between two Spa defenders to volley his shot over the bar. Adam had a further chance in the middle of the game. Once again, his shot went just over the bar.

The last action of the half saw a Spa deflected free kick confidently claimed by Charlie.

Second Half

Raiders had an encouraging start to the half when Jordan Kondo’s pass found the unmarked Bailey Fuller at the back post, who shot over the bar. Raiders levelled with a spectacular goal. In the 65th minute, Jake Collins turned his marker and struck from 40 yards into the top right corner.

From the restart, Spa thought they had regained the lead when Nathan Binner chipped the ball into Raider’s net, only to be ruled offside by the assistant referee. Raiders looked in control of the game before being hit with a game-changing moment, a second yellow card for captain Jordan Murphy.

Raiders found it difficult to readjust without their influential captain; however, it was Raiders who came close to taking the lead when another Jake Collins shot narrowly missed.

Spa could consider themselves very fortunate when Spa keeper Stockton handled the ball out of his area. It was a bad miss by the assistant referee who was in a good position to see the offence.

Raiders tried to adjust to being a player down, but it was difficult without theirinfluential captain. However Raiders nearly took the lead when a further spectacular shot from outside the box by Jake Collins narrowly missed.

Spa began to take advantage of the extra player when in the eighty second minute, they reclaimed the lead, Alex Dugmore leapt to head the ball home from a corner kick.

Five minutes later, Spa added a third when a Ben Tilbury volley crossed the line. This was the last action of the game, which saw Spa do the double over Raiders.

Credit must be given to both teams who tried to play attractive football in difficult weather conditions. This is a disappointing result for Raiders, who looked capable of winning up until the sending off. Their playoff place is not mathematically guaranteed, but they remain in a strong position.

Next week’s match against fellow playoff hopefuls Corsham Town takes on more importance.

Next Match
Hellenic Premier League
Saturday 18 April

Corsham Town FC
Kick Off 3:00pm
Secure Southbank, Lacock Road, Corsham, SN13 9HS