SPARTAN SOUTH MIDLANDS LEAGUE DIVISION ONE
CHESHAM UNITED RESERVES 0 LONDON LIONS 0
London Lions came away from Chesham with a hard-earned point following a battling goalless draw in the SSML.
Now unbeaten in three matches, Lions have found a new-found resilience in recent weeks, but they face a tough three games in five days which will test that resolve to the max.
Lions certainly seem to have upset the footballing gods somehow, as they suffered more bad luck on the injury front. The returning Omri Brinner lasted 29 minutes and Cameron Most suffered a nasty ankle and knee injury 30 minutes before the end.
Under the cosh for large amounts of the game, Lions defended with bravery and gumption, with Guy Morris and Rafa Soccairello particularly impressive.
Chesham certainly didn't have it all their own way as Lions created several chances to score. Andy Glynne, Tony Gold and Brinner all crafted opportunities for Sam Shooter, Nick Barnett and Max Kyte, but the home keeper was in inspired form.
The game continued to be played on the counter-attack by both sides, but neither could find that all important breakthrough.
As the referee blew the final whistle, the Lions were delighted with the hard-earned point which was pleasing on so many levels.
Lions boss Tony Gold commented: "There are no easy games in this division and we've just got to ensure that we are the best we can be on any given day, today we did that.
"Now we have to focus on doing it again on Monday against a strong Bedford side and Wednesday against Risborough Rangers, two tough games.
"The pitch is big here so getting your distances right is important. Our defence was excellent today as it allowed us to engage and press.
"We had good shape which restricted Chesham to passing the ball around in front of us, but they couldn't penetrate or get behind us. Another well earned point and we're now unbeaten in our last three."
LIONS: Mario Cenolli, Tony Gold, Guy Morris, Nick Barnett, Cameron Most (sub: Andy Landesberg), Andy Glynne, Rafi Soccairello, Sam Shooter, Omri Brinner (sub: Rick Jacobson), Max Kyte, Zac Rose
