Dorkinian 1st XI ventured up to Enfield in AFC Prem action to face a Minchendinians side who despite sitting in the relegation zone constituted a real threat, buoyed by their better home form including a point last week against Wandsworth. The weather forced the game to be relocated and the quality of the new pitch certainly levelled the playing field, frustrating Dorks normal flowing football at a narrow and boggy park.

An early Jonny Walton goal following great work from Phil Robinson was cancelled out by a smart Minch free kick from just outside the box. Minch continued to threaten with their direct style of play and went one up after a cutting pass dissected the Dorks defence, allowing the Minch winger to round the keeper and slot home. Half-time was welcomed by Dorks who began the second half with a renewed interest in building possession better. However, it was Minch who continued to thwart this, aided by the narrow playing surface and they took a two-goal lead via a penalty.

Pressure was mounted from Dorks who were rewarded with a second with the aforementioned Robinson putting it on a plate for Hawkins to crash home. The final 20 minutes lacked any real quality and Minch to their credit were able to kill the game, holding the ball up to frustrate Dorks and ultimately taking the win.

Certainly points dropped for this Dorks side with aspirations to keep up with the pace of the unbeaten league leaders. A week off next weekend gives the lads time to regroup and reassess ahead of a huge London Old Boys Cup Semi-Final down at Fortress Pixham in a fortnights time where they will host the holders Salvatorians.

By George Warne