We got our campaign off to a flying start on Saturday, writes James Barrett-Sterling.
We visited league newcomers Ashford United, whom
were promoted as Southern Counties East champions, and won a tight affair via a
single goal by Brendan Murphy-McVey on the stroke of half-time.
And the 22-year old was keen to point out two aspects of a
satisfying afternoon’s work in deepest Kent.
 |
| Scorer: Murphy-Mcvey taking on United |
“We didn’t have a great pre-season in terms of results but
we felt ready for Saturday in terms of our preparation and fitness,” said the
attacking midfielder.
“Most people know of our attacking qualities but we’ve
worked a lot on our defensive side and overall structure, so it was great to
keep a clean sheet as well as taking the three points.”
Murphy-McVey displayed great composure in the 45th
minute by controlling a cross-shot by Tommy Bradford before impudently flicking
the ball over sprawling keeper George Kamurasi.
United received a golden chance to level things up from the
penalty spot in the 67th minute but Rory Hill smashed his spot-kick
against our crossbar.
And the home side finished up with ten men after defender
Pat Kingwell, who the referee deemed as ‘the last man’, hauled down Michael
Campbell as our striker bore down on goal.
“They were a strong side but our little bit of quality told
in the end,” Murphy-McVey said.
“I’ve been told to get into the box more and I ended up on
the end of Tommy’s attempt. It was a bit of a five-a-side finish but it felt
instinctive.”
Our first home game comes this Monday as we go up
against fellow promotion favourites Hastings United.
“I’m buzzing for another game so soon after Saturday and
I’ve tended to do well against Hastings in the past,” he added. “I
spent a lot of last season injured so I’m feeling fresh and want to help keep
this positive start going.”
Carshalton Athletic vs Hastings United kicks-off at 7.45pm
on Monday 14th August.