Slough fall to second half strikes at Crusaders

Second half goals from James Clark and Harry Goodger win all three points for Hungerford in a tight, scrappy game at Bulpit Lane.

Two second half strikes were enough to give Hungerford a vital three points in an Easter Monday match which will not live long in the memory.

Harry Goodger’s goal two minutes from time settled this dull contest after James Clark had given Hungerford the lead on 55 minutes.

On a warm, pleasant afternoon at Bulpit Road, the first shot on target came from Adam Martin, though it was an easy save for Paul Strudley. Hungerford responded and put a shot off target at the other end.

Chances were at a premium as the two sides cancelled each other out on a dry, bumpy pitch which did not allow for flowing football. Chris Henry looked a threat on Slough’s left on the occasions he was able to gain possession and run at the home defence.

Crusaders skipper Mark Draycott put an acrobatic volley well wide, whilst Scott Harris had Slough’s best effort, heading just over the bar from Henry’s cross.

The pattern of disappointing play continued into the second half, with neither side able to keep possession for very long and resorting to high, hopeful balls into the channels, which were defended well. Matt Collins was off target with a difficult volley for the hosts, but shortly after, Slough were caught out with a sucker punch.

A simple ball over the top was not dealt with by the Rebels, and out of nothing, Clark raced clear and slipped the ball past the advancing Luke Williams to give Hungerford the lead, when it looked as if neither side would break the deadlock.

It could have been worse minutes later, but Dean Stow headed a clear chance wide at the near post.

Hungerford prevented Slough from getting back into the match, and could only muster a cross-shot from substitute Dan Read, which was played just too far ahead of the onrushing Harris.

Draycott tried another ambitious attempt which was easily held by Williams, and Eddie Smith got in a shot which was well off target.

And with only a couple of minutes remaining, Goodger made sure of the points for Hungerford, following up to score after Williams did well to save his initial shot, as the hosts moved into fourth place in the table.