Hampton 2 Sutton United 1

Sutton turned in an improved performance, but the result was the same at the Beveree on Saturday as their climb up the Ryman League table was halted, writes Tony Dolbear.

United were extremely lucky in the 18th minute, Richard

O'Connor intercepted a crossfield pass for Hampton, made use of the space in front of him and hit a 20 yard shot that Chuck Martini tipped on to the crossbar. The rebound fell to Eysais Yadego, but his header clipped crossbar on its way over.

United played some decent football but were let down by the final pass.

An on target shot finally came on the hour for Sutton, although Rob Haworth's header caused Stuart McKenzie few problems, but United were definitely in the ascendancy when Timothy was penalised for a challenge on Yadego 20 yards out.

Again Martini made a mess of dealing with O'Connor's free kick, and this time substitute Paul de Luca was on hand to rattle in the rebound.

To their credit, Sutton bounced straight back to level with a curious goal as Timothy's cross shot deflected off Tony Houghton, evaded the grasp of McKenzie and was ruled over the line before Steve Omonua cleared.

The untidy nature of the goal was probably in keeping with the problems United had around their opponent's penalty area, but it was a big boost to level so quickly.

The balance seemed to tilt further Sutton's way when

Belaid, booked by referee Paul McQueen early in the second half for a challenge on Matt Fowler, ended a darting run from Timothy in uncompromising fashion and found his debut cut short by 18 minutes.

Before United could turn things to their advantage, a long ball from the back found de Luca clear on the left, and he lifted the ball over the rapidly advancing Martini in to the vacant net.

He almost had a hat trick when a fierce cross shot went just wide.

Sutton should have rescued a point when Mike Mison, who along with Honey had a commanding game, headed a free kick in to Chris Boothe's path ten yards out but his shot was smothered by McKenzie.

November 16, 2001 10:01