Merton 0 - 1 Old Parkonians (Southern Amateur League)
Merton 0 - 1 Old Parkonians (Southern Amateur League)

With a disappointing string of results in the league taking Parks from second place down to fourth, it was essential that Parks got all six points from this S.A.L. double-header on Saturday.

On a very uneven surface Parks began much the better of the two sides and were soon into their rhythm. Knapman and Parmenter were causing a lot of trouble going forward for Parks, and also doing well chasing down the defenders to give them no quality time on the ball. Mason went close on 15 minutes after a good ball from Jamieson, and Goodhew was unlucky to see his first time strike shave the bar after good work from Knapman and Mason at a short corner. However, the away side soon converted one of their many chances, Mason springing the offside trap and cooly slotting home at the second attempt. Merton continued to try and create with their two forwards looking sharp on the counter attack, but with Turner sweeping behind the defence Parks were looking assured and saw out the rest of the first game with Bernstein, Nicholls and Celotto very solid at the back.

With three points secure, Parks looked to capture their seventh win of the season, and in almost a carbon copy of the first game started sharply, and created several good chances from the outset. With Miller and Keogh patrolling the flanks, and Goodhew and Jamieson combining well in the centre Parks looked strong and in control. With fatigue beginning to play a part, it was going to take something special to break the deadlock, and it was towards the end of the first half that Knapman delivered it. Picking up the ball on 25 yards after good hold-up play from Parmenter, Knapman took a couple of paces before curling a wicked strike into the top left corner. Once in front, Parks again looked very assured and should have extended the lead when Mason's lob dropped the wrong side of the post. A classy volley from Pascoe had the keeper beat only to come back off the bar, and Miller also went close after a strong run down the right. Parks saw out the remaining time, with only a bobbly shot from long distance giving Merton any hope.

With seven wins out of twelve games Parks are back on track to press for promotion, and with all the top sides to play each other, have their destiny in their own hands.

Scorer 1: Mason
Scorer 2: Knapman
Man of the Match 1: Nicholls
Man of the match 2: Bernstein

Report by Tim Cross