League champions Dover Athletic certainly did not start today’s game against a spirited Hythe Town team as winners . Pre match team talks centred on maintaining a professional , focused ,working hard and finishing strong with the correct attitude approach.
This unfortunately was not the case in the first half. Hythe using this game as their cup final applied pressure and commitment to winning every challenge and wanting to be first to the ball. This sadly lacking from the Dover players.
The first half saw 3 chances in quick succession from Hythe and Dover keeper Owen Harman making two good saves and a clearance from Alfy Galvin.
Dover in return had a Liam Middleton shot, and free kick from Ethan Challinor both off target to show for their efforts.
Halftime 0-0
Team talk at halftime was very much still focused upon , you must compete first , before you can start playing . Second half started much better for Dover showing the commitment and standards expected .
But It was Hythe who ultimately took the lead on 56mins. Dover defence allowing attacker to literally walk through before driving a low shot into the net 0 -1 Hythe.
This set back did spark Dover into action and went on to finish the second half strongest with once again their fitness showing why they are champions.
Dover then started to create their own pressure with two good saves by Hythe keeper from Jack Gealer .
This pressure was finally rewarded after the opposition not clearing fully a corner and the ball finally falling to man of the match Liam Jones who volleyed from close range on 87th mins.
Dover then finished with more chances before final whistle closing the game.
Final score 1 -1
