RYAN ON SONG AS VICTORY SECURED
RYAN CLARKE proved to be the hero of the hour as a solid display from the Crusaders secured the points at Bulpit Lane against a battling AFC Totton.
The visitors arrived at Bulpit Lane in impressive form, having been unbeaten in their past five league games, which meant this was always going to provide Hungerford with a very big test.
But it was the home side who looked to be the form team in the first half.
The industrious Ramarni Medford-Smith was causing problems with his long throws, although they were ably dealt with by Luke Hallett.
But Hungerford took a deserved lead in the 25th minute when Fabio Lopes cross was met by Conor McDonagh to head in for his 29th goal of the season.
And the hosts remained on top for the rest of the half, with Lopes and Jack Stanley putting in dangerous crosses, which tested the busy Totton goalkeeper Josh Gould to the full.
The Stags’ only real chance of that opening period came right at the end when Marcel McIntosh’s shot was hit straight at a very relieved Clarke.
Totton came out much stronger in the second half and applied a tremendous amount of pressure on their hosts.
As a result, it took a great performance from that man Clarke to keep them at bay.
A save from Scott Rendell in the 75th minute was probably the standout effort.
But there was also another very memorable moment five minutes before the end when Juan Luque hit the outside of the post after more good work from Rendell.
In the end it was a deserved win from the home side after a solid display, and one which should give them a great deal of added confidence as they prepare for the remaining fixtures ahead.
At the same time, AFC Totton will have been reflecting on what might have been as they eye a rapid return to winning ways. They clearly have the players capable of doing just that.