Slough's fine run ends with narrow defeat at Redditch

Slough’s excellent recent run comes to an end with a single goal defeat at high-flying Redditch.

Slough’s excellent recent run of five straight wins in all competitions was brought to an end by a single goal defeat at high-flying Redditch, but the Rebels were unlucky not to extend their unbeaten run.

Joint manager Neil Baker spoke afterwards of the many positives to take from the game, particularly the defence, which has tightened up in recent weeks as Dan Hicks and Guy Hollis have formed a centre-back partnership, and on-loan left-back Paul Stonehouse has also made a positive impact.

The Worcestershire side looked the more likely side to score in a first half of few clear cut chances. In the early stages, Stonehouse had a weak effort deflected wide, and Redditch striker Daniel Dubitat worked his way into the area but curled his shot over when well positioned.

Redditch threatened consistently, mainly through Dubitat and Jamie Molyneux, but Slough stood firm and counter-attacked when possible. Lewis Putman had a shot blocked behind for a corner, and the striker-turned-winger put in a couple of dangerous crosses which Slough could not convert.

Warren Harris hit Slough’s first real effort wide after showing superb skill, whilst Mark Scott gathered a shot Molyneux and watched a powerful effort from Troy Baker fly just past the post.

Redditch steadily built the pressure on Slough’s goal as the second half wore on. Scott was equal to Jamey Osborne’s free kick, and the keeper was alert on several occasions to collect the ball ahead of Molyneux.

Slough continued to weather the storm, and Sean Fraser got in a vital clearance after Kyle Haines had got to the byline and played the ball across.

But the Rebels’ defence was breached from a corner, which came after Scott pushed a long-range effort behind. From the resulting kick, ball was headed in through a crowded penalty area and past Stonehouse on the line to give the hosts the lead.

After being pinned back in their own half for large spells, Slough worked hard to find an equaliser in the final quarter of the game, but failed to test Jose Veiga too often.

Ryan Hope volleyed wide from the edge of the box, and the best chance came when substitute Leigh Rumbold, making his return after a spell playing in New Zealand, headed the ball back into the box for Charlie Mpi, but he fired wide on the turn.

Slough kept up the pressure, with Hicks heading a corner on for Mpi who was again denied, but Redditch kept the door firmly shut and claimed all three points.