AFC Totton
YOUNG STAGS OVERCOME SPIRITED ROBINS
AFC Totton progressed into the third round of the Southampton Senior Cup after edging past a courageous Downton side 3-1 at the Snows Stadium.
Three divisions separated the teams coming into the fixture but it was the away side who probed in the first half and ought to have taken the lead.
Some fantastic work by Ollie Davies through the centre teed up Freddie Ingram on the right-hand side, whose delicate chip over the goalkeeper was cleared heroically by Benny Read on the line.
Despite dominating possession, it was Downton who threatened again. Luke Hallett's misjudged clearance allowed Joe Smith to bear down on goal and the forward's chip over Lewis Noice rebounded off of the crossbar.
The Stags turned it on in the second half and broke the deadlock instantly; Jordan Chiedozie's pass across the box found Alfie STANLEY, who expertly dispatched into the far corner.
However, the Robins pecked back through Joe SMITH as the striker stabbed home following a free-kick from the left.
Totton responded well as Jordan CHIEDOZIE put his side back in front, stooping low to nod the ball beyond Will Betts.
The game was then put beyond doubt through 17-year-old Ashton PICKLES - the midfielder leathering a half-volley past the goalkeeper after Downton failed to clear the corner.
AFC Totton managed to grind the game out and notch their fifth successive win, meaning they will face Winsor United Green in the third round.
FULL-TIME: AFC Totton 3-1 Downton
Author: Olly Howard
Star Player: Jordan Chiedozie
Entertainment Value: 3/5
Photography: Michaela Cater
