DAFC were entertained by Folkestone this week, and with DAFC on the back of two harsh losses they came out the blocks with determination. DAFC kept possession well and kept trying to feed the ball to Lewis Saunders to run on to but Folkestone were on to that direct approach early and ensured the DAFC striker was never alone. Saunders was able to run free from his markers and cause havoc toward the edge of the box but few clear chances were made and little disturbed the goalkeeper. Folkestone had some good attacking moves in the half with Dan Smith untroubled between the posts. With the half ending 0-0 DAFC were clearly on top and had no doubts that an early goal would settle them down for a victory.

Within 2 minutes of the restart Folkestone made an attack down the left wing and outpaced the defender to create a one-on-one with the goalkeeper. Great positional play by the keeper gave the striker little room to shoot, however the ball was struck between the keeper’s legs and edged passed the back post. A wake-up call for DAFC that gave them the jolt to continue the first half performance. Again some direct play by DAFC teased potential shots but room was not in abundance for shot taking. A goal mouth scuffle allowed Saunders to slot the ball home for DAFC to take the lead and leave Folkestone with their heads down. 1-0 to DAFC. Continued pressure by the visiting team was seen but nothing came to fruition.

Folkestone were gifted a corner, and from early examples were looking dangerous in attacking them at the rear post. Alas, continued delivery of the ball caused DAFC issues with the defence stationary watching the ball float over the line, only for the goalkeeper to react and scoop the ball out. Unfortunately the damage had been done and the goal was awarded. 1-1, with the home team sensing another goal.

An aerial challenge involving George Cudsworth from DAFC being knocked off balance in the air resulted in a hard fall and an audible ‘crack’ upon landing. With both team coaches aiding the injury, Cudworth could play no further part in the game, with the hope it wasn’t as bad as it sounded.

Folkestone were awarded a free kick 5 yards outside the DAFC box, nails were being bitten in fear of another last minute harsh defeat. The shot came in and was parried down by the keeper only for two Folkestone players to react the quickest and tap the ball home. Despair and aguish was obvious on the teams face. 2-1 to Folkestone with little time remaining, but as has been seen so far this season, DAFC stayed composed and pushed for the win.

The referee signalled 40 seconds left of the injury time with a goalkick to Folkestone. The kick was picked up by Folkestone and as had been seen for most of the game, with DAFC quickly regaining possession sending Alfie Bainbridge–Smith off on a run toward the advancing Folkestone goalkeeper who looked certain to get there first. With no signs of giving up the chase, Alfie hassled brilliantly and came away with the ball just inside the box and in one almighty final effort and off balance he hooked the ball out of reach of the keeper and sent the ball home into an open net. Ecstasy from the DAFC crowd and gasps of despair from the home supporters.

Although DAFC picked up their first point of the season, they may see this as losing two points as they thoroughly deserved to come out on top in this match. The signs remain, the first victory is imminent. A final report on the injury…a broken tibia, leaving George Cudworth out for several weeks. All the parents, coaches and squad wish him a speedy recovery.