Copyright and courtesy of Adam Benfell at Marlow FC. Photo by Neil Collins.
Marlow took the lead within 10 minutes of play commencing as James Clark converted Curtis Chapple’s cross at the near post, arrowing the ball into the bottom corner. The lead would not last long for the home side as Darnell Goather-Braithwaite would capitalise on a huge error from goalkeeper Simon Grant to bring Westfield level.
Both sides had many chances to take the lead before half time and it would be Marlow who went ahead again as James Clark scored his second of the game. This time his strike went high into the corner as he converted another low cross. The hosts went in 2-1 to the good at the break.
Westfield would come out swinging in the second half and quickly levelled the score as Darnell Goather-Braithwaite beat his man with an excellent first-time touch and then beat the goalkeeper at his near post. Westfield were in the ascendency but continually thwarted by goalkeeper Simon Grant who made several wonderful saves to make up for his earlier error.
Despite the Westfield pressure it would be the Blues who took the lead for a third time with 20 minutes left to play. James Clark completing his hat-trick with a low finish beyond Westfield goalkeeper Renell McKenzie-Lyle. 10 minutes later and Westfield equalised yet again as Darnell Goather-Braithwaite also completed his hat-trick in a goal line scramble setting up an exciting finish.
Despite having only minutes to play there was still time for drama at the end as Junaid Bell was dismissed for two yellow cards in quick succession. This caused tension to rise as just a minute later Westfield’s Troy Timothy was shown a straight red card for throwing a punch after being brought down by Jordan Brown, who stopped the counterattack in doing so.
Both teams being reduced to 10 men did not bring a winning goal and spoils were shared as the referee blew for full time, ending the most exciting match of Marlow’s season so far.
Marlow's matchday programme can be viewed here.
