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Match Report: Horsham 1-0 Whyteleafe
Whyteleafe put up a spirited performance with a young inexperienced side against a strong Horsham side, currently second in the Bostik premier league and only narrowly lost to a single goal. Leafe were without regulars McCarthy, Mensah, Wedgeworth, Thompson, Holder, Sobowale, Parker and Walker-Bath due to injuries and resting players. The game was almost abandoned due to thick fog late in the first half. The start of the second half was delayed to see if it cleared and conditions improved considerably.
Leafe were unlucky not to take an early lead. A strong run from Junior Aikhionbare in the 7th minute saw him find Izzy Adebayo on the far side of the box and his shot crashed against the bar. Martin Sontan then made a good run into the box in the 11th minute, his shot was blocked by Alex Kelly.
Horsham took a 12th minute lead somewhat against the run of the early play. Full back Jerry O'Sullivan advanced into the box and struck a fine shot into the top corner of the goal. Horsham then had more of the game but the fog was getting thicker and didn't help reporting on the match. Kelly shot wide when well placed in the 27th minute then veteran keeper Sheikh Ceesay appeared to tip round a 34th minute effort from Charlie Harris.
At the other end Adebayo had a shot blocked in the box and George Bentley tipped round a shot from Mason Saunders-Henry. After a delay whilst fog cleared, Leafe started the second half strongly. Aikhionbare had a 47th minute effort saved. Leafe came closest to an equaliser in the 61st minute when an Adebayo cross found Bentley Gram in the box but his closerange header was well saved by Bentley.
Will Miles missed a golden chance for the hosts in the 65th minute heading over from close range in plenty of space. Leafe had plenty of possession but were unable to penetrate the hosts defence who held on to progress to the next round.
Whyteleafe Team: Ceesay, Antonio, O'Donoghue, Campbell (Garner 81), McGeoghegan, Orome, Adebayo (Andrews 82), Graham (Olunrunnisomo 81), Aikhionbare, Saunders-Henry, Sontan. sub not used Sutherland.
