Men's football news
Written by: Joe
Tony Russell praised the adaptability of his players after battling to a 1-0 FA Trophy win over a much-changed Sevenoaks at the Dripping Pan on Saturday.
Deon Moore’s 62nd-minute strike secured the win for the Rooks, which ended a four-game streak without victory.
A noisy 550 fans watched on at the Pan as Russell also gave new signings Jamie Mascoll and Johnville Renee their debuts.
And Russell was delighted with how his team performed.
“We had to be patient today,” said Russell after the game. “I thought we were a little bit loose in the first half but saying that we created some great chances.
“It’s just a shame the finishing was a little bit wasteful – smashing the ball over the bar, ballooning them wide, we just needed a little bit of composure. I said to the players at half time that we needed that little bit of quality would win the game, and the goal itself was top drawer.”
The win means Lewes progress in the FA Trophy and attention now turns to Tuesday’s visit to Herne Bay in the Isthmian Premier League.
Reflecting on a combative outing today, Russell added: “We maybe could have scored one or two more but I said to the boys afterwards we were professional without being spectacular – that’s the best way to describe it.
“They had quite an unusual attacking formation and had been causing other teams problems. They beat Bath City from the league above away last week, and caused them all sorts of issues.
“I wanted to make sure that tactically we were on top of that, and the boys did that. I know their management team and they know me, and I think they were aware that if they came here with their usual game then they could have got on the end of one.
“We’ve maintained our unbeaten record at home, which was great. It wasn’t a classic Lewes performance but given we haven’t won in a few games, it was nice.
“Sevenoaks are a decent side, but we were relatively comfortable, defended well, created some half chances and won the game with a little bit of quality. We’ll take it.”