Oakley started the stronger with several fast moves that needed either strong defensive headers from Sergio or a sliding tackle from Joseph to prevent chances, though Oakley did manage to fire off a couple of shots that needed Thomas’ intervention.

As the half progressed Spartak grew into the game and looked the better side. On the 20 minute mark Theo had a shot but in a crowded box it wouldn’t go in and Jack R was making nice runs to no avail.

Then just before half time Oakley broke on the right and reached the byline. A fine deep cross came in which they headed back across the goal to score.

Overall, this was an even match with both teams showing they are capable of scoring. As the teams kicked off for the second half they both knew that all three points were still up for grabs.

The second half was one of few chances. After 9 minutes Matthew’s piledriver freekick from 30 yards was always going over.
Nine minutes later there was a fast break from Oakley and in a one on one their attacker clipped the ball over Thomas but also the bar.

Next there was great work from Charlie, Spartak’s best player in recent weeks, down the right generating a corner that despite some nervousness from the Oakley keeper was eventually cleared.

Then Thomas did well to dive at the feet at another 1 on 1 as the match suddenly veered from end to end.

As the match entered added on time, Linslade continued to push forward when they could. Firstly, a corner came in and Blake’s header was well connected but was a yard over the bar. Then, Theo and Matthew combined well to give Caelan a chance from the edge of the box. Again it was a good connection but fired over.

Right at the death, Oakley broke forward at pace and Thomas did well again to snuff the chance.

Overall, this was a tight match which was separated by one moment of top level play by the Oakley right winger.

Spartak worked really hard and battled to the end. However, they faced an Oakley side that through a combination of slowing the game down and good defending held out until the end.