Dulwich Hamlet 1 : London Seaward 1

Post Match report from Jason Murray

Another gruelling relegation scrap at the bubbling and vibrant home of Dulwich Hamlets, a proper football ground whose wonderful fan base made for a fantastic noisey atmosphere.

The crowd was a wash with club merchandise, bobble hats scarfs and shirts in club colours and 500 or so and 6 dogs were all in full voice.

We are coming into all these games determined to leave with something so we can start clawing our way out of trouble at the foot of the table . The squad is training very well and the mood is optimistic, I have been delighted with the players response since we came in they know its not going to be pretty we have a fight on our hands.

We needed everything today , determination, courage, discipline, know-how and a big old slice of luck . The early exchanges in the first half, luck was certainly on our side as a combination of poor finishing, and another outstanding contribution from Alex in goal kept it at 0-0.

It was also clear we were up to the fight which is what’s going to be needed in the run in. I think our organisation and commitment and let’s say game experience, really suprised and frustrated the home team.

Eventually they took the lead with a powerful finish from their right winger who was proving a handful. We changed things up a little at half time , and started to play our way into the game.

It was no shock when the equaliser came, even if the source was a little surprising. Mia South took a break from her POM defensive performance, to fire home a wonderful free kick to draw us level. The 2nd half was more open with us causing more and more problems for the home side, Mia almost added a 2nd from yet another free kick effort and has made a serious claim for that set piece role moving forward.

The last 7 minutes which seemed to last about 27 minutes from the bench, was a siege on our goal as the home side cheered on by the crowd pushed forward.

Alex was again outstanding pulling off a string of saves, and there was even time for an almighty goal line scramble at the end. The ball cannoned of the bar from a header, and our reaction was remarkable, bodies being laid on the line blocking everywhere before finally clearing off the line.

This was a big result, and this has been coming, still it’s only a point however if we continue with that level of commitment and stick to the plan this might just be on.

We all go off for our Christmas break now , and that means I will be sitting down as I traditionally do at some point to watch the Great escape 😉 .

Specialiast Report from Goalkeeper Coach: Sandeep ‘Sunny’ Hunjan

In our hard-fought 1-1 draw, our goalkeeper delivered an outstanding performance that was pivotal to the result. Calm, composed, and confident, they were the bedrock of the team, making crucial saves and showing impeccable decision-making throughout the match.

Whether it was coming off the line to claim dangerous crosses or making vital stops to deny the opposition, every move inspired confidence in the players around them.

Alex’s assured presence between the posts gave the team a solid foundation, allowing us to play with greater freedom and belief. When it mattered most, Alex stepped up, proving once again just how invaluable she is to this squad.

Post match catch up with Mia South.

Jack Hobbs: A well battled and deserved point away to a tough opposition, how are you and the girls feeling going into Christmas?

Mia South: The teams glad we’ve ended the year with a result we are all proud of. I feel like all our hard work at training with Jason is starting to show, and hopefully continues to show in the new year.

JH: How does it feel to score your first goal for the club and can you talk us through it?

MS: I couldn’t be happier with my first senior goal, to hear the girls cheering for me and being able to celebrate with them all, it can’t get any better than that.

I took a free kick in the first half which wasn’t far off, and with the second one being around the same area i thought i would give it another go, and it’s a good thing i did as it hit the crossbar and bounced in.