A win is a win is a win!

Spalding 3, Biggleswade 2

Two teams, rebuilding after promotion, both in what will soon become the relegation zone, both desperate for a win and seeing this match as the best opportunity to get three points.

No surprise, then that the opening exchanges were anxious and lacking in shape. “Nothing to be frightened of here” I thought but fortunately did not say it aloud, as around the tenth minute Breeden blocked a shot but Biggleswade scored on the rebound. Ten minutes later they had a free shot with our defence beaten, but hit the post. Supporters were becoming frustrated as Spalding tried but failed to get behind the Biggleswade defence although chances on goal did come. But then new signing and attacking right back Connor Brown (man of the match) was clearly pulled down in the area, and Tyler Winters stepped forward to take a no-nonsense penalty that would have made Shearer proud. The first half ended with Biggleswade looking dangerous on breakaways, and the scores even.

Coming out strongly after the break, Spalding won a corner on the left, to be taken by Hilliard. No far post attempt this time: he aimed close in to the near post…and seemed as surprised as anyone when it went straight in!

By now, the combination of Ngandu and winger Nyahwema were finding space on the left, and it was a fine sight to see them interpassing and, at last, getting the crosses in.

Needless to say, the (still bandaged) head of Staino was dominating the opposition’s aerial attacks, but in one well crafted move involving one of their substitutes, Biggleswade played through Spalding and scored to bring the game to 2 - 2.

Then another Hilliard corner on the left. Could it happen again? Close in to the near post, the ball was partially cleared but immediately lobbed into goal by Captain Walker via the head of a defender. Three, two! In the final, anxious moments JD tried to outdo Fergie in persuading the referee to blow the final whistle, but then it was all over.

Not perfect, still no goal in open play, but at this stage three points from a September relegation derby will do nicely.

Moley

FANS FOOTAGE : Thank you to Ian Green for capturing this moment!