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Millers six points from the title after thrashing Old Georgians

Sanderstead 1s need to win only two of their last five games in South League Surrey Division 2 to claim the title, after romping home 11-0 against Old Georgians 3s last Saturday.  If their nearest rivals Walton & Weybridge and Addiscombe only manage a draw when they play each other this weekend, a single victory could suffice for the Millers, depending on goal difference.

Old Georgians suffered with a lack of personnel and were put to the sword within minutes of push-back, as Sanderstead quickly established a two-goal lead.  The score rose steadily during the first half, and a 6-0 advantage at the interval reflected the one-sided nature of the game.  With five more goals in the second period and a host of missed opportunities, the hosts were never stretched by their ten-man opponents in this encounter.

Goals included a flick from Denzil Dolley, who hit four during the game, and a hat-trick for John Devaney.  Richard Bruce scored two in open play, to take his season's tally to 11, while James Godden netted his first-ever goal for Sanderstead, rounding off a slick short corner routine with a clinical finish.  Alex Vernon completed the scoring, converting into an open goal after neat build-up play by Dolley and Bruce.

Said Martyn Avery, the Millers captain, "This was a great demonstration of our ability to stick to a game plan.  We out-numbered OGs on the field, but remained focused throughout and converted many of our chances.  The fact we kept our first clean sheet since Christmas is also rewarding, though OGs gave us little to do in defence."

The 2nd team also managed a clean sheet, as Dom Knolles bagged a brace and David Barkhausen flicked home from close range to set up a comfortable 3-0 win over Woking.  In-form sweeper Matt Harris and the Millers tireless midfield were the difference in this clash, guarding the danger zone and instigating numerous attacks.  Goalie Richie Young showed sharp reactions late on, moving swiftly to keep out a deflected Woking effort.

A win for the 3s, overcoming Spencer 6-2, ended a recent run of defeats.  A Mark Mear hat-trick helped them on their way, with a goal each for Simon Coombes, Rob Lunt and Tyler Ward.  A 4-1 lead at half time put the game beyond Spencer - though they battled hard, they could not match the might of the Millers, who may have scored even more but for poor finishing.

The 4th XI ensured that the Old Saw Mill's teams remained undefeated last Saturday.  A win was beyond the 4s, but they managed a creditable 2-2 draw over close rivals Epsom.  Neil Priest hit two for Sanderstead, to make it a remarkable 30 goals for him this season, his second coming after an incisive break from winger Adam Prizzey to cancel out Epsom's half-time lead.  Paul Funnell was named man of the match for a solid defensive display.