North West Neasden A vs UJIA

UJIA manager Ben Radstone gave an honest assessment of where his team is at ahead of Sunday’s trip to Neasden.

The U’s gaffer told me he hopes to be “pretty much be at full-strength” for the crucial clash.

Assi Avital was their star man last time out, bagging a brace in a memorable 3-1 win over Hendon B – their first win of the season.

Indeed this is the beginning of a vital period for UJIA, with matches against Faithfold B and Chigwell to follow.

Looking ahead to Sunday, Radstone told JC Sport: “Similar to ourselves, I think Neasden have also been struggling a bit this season.

“I’m sure it will be a close game but certainly a game that we are capable of winning.

“Let’s just hope it gets a bit warmer between now and Sunday.”

Neasden have lost some key players this season and go into their first meeting with UJIA this season hoping to put out a competitive squad. I bumped into football agent Phil Smith in the snow last weekend and he said: “Ouch.” After that he told me he was due to play for Daniel Hodes’ men so quite clearly, experience is the name of the game for NWN.

With Smith, Jon Kaye and Adam Kern, Hodes is determined to pack as many wise, old heads into the team for who the famous Neasden badge means something to.

These three players will look to get the best out of young Michael Field and Adam Klein, who must be hoping one of the MSFL giants make a bid before the transfer window closes. While his loyalty must be admired, several managers have questioned his ambition, but hats off to the talented left-back who is due to feature in my Player Profile section in the JC over the coming weeks.

As for Sunday, the first goal will be key. Avital is in the kind of form that defenders hate. His battle against Kaye could prove decisive.

Ref – Aaron Djanogly

JC star man: Assi Avital (UJIA)

DC Prediction: UJIA 2 Neasden A 1