VNL#26 - Daggers 2 Maidenhead United 1
Performance-wise, the version of Dagenham we've seen in the past five games is exactly what I wanted us to be when the season initially kicked off in October. We've looked reasonably capable at both ends of the pitch while also playing with a distinct shape, identity and formation. Tonight wasn't the best display in that spell but in many ways it was symptomatic of the progress we've made. We attacked with vigour and intensity with a fluid front three consisting of Balanta, Saunders and McCallum, a trio containing several essential attributes that all complimented one another. The latter of those made the decisive contribution with a quick-fire double of close-range tap in's. As much as they were both routine conversions, that McCallum was in the perfect position time and time again was a very encouraging sight considering he has struggled in that department all season. It's a third goal in as many games for the man on whom many of our hopes rely, and hopefully this decent streak continues. However, though he will claim the majority of the plaudits, and rightfully so as the matchwinner, this victory was the epitome of a team effort. Weston was electric, as always, and he left several in his wake even when they attempted to double up on him. At the other end, Johnson and Clark were absolutely immense. Balanta was his customary creative self. Saunders was a bundle of relentless energy. Rance worked tirelessly all night. It was about so much more than just the two goals. Of course, it wasn't always perfect. The ending was far nervier than it ought to be and that links to the recurring problem of us being unable to finish a team off. We had enough chances to put the contest beyond doubt yet instead left ourselves susceptible to a similar sort of comeback we ourselves executed against Boreham Wood. Maidenhead deserved their goal and in truth were unfortunate in many ways, but I thought we invited unnecessary pressure by sitting back, pressure that would not have existed if we had been a tad more clinical. Predominantly, though, it was a commanding and assured performance. Minus the period of ucnertainty triggered by their goal, we looked untroubled and managed the game superbly. Though the injury to Matt Robinson affected us negatively, an inevitable outcome given his importance to the team, we remained largely in control and ultimately got over the line, albeit in far more unconvincing circumstances in the end.
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May 2024
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