Andover Town7–0○Millbrook

A dull, damp and cold evening seemed an appropriately sombre setting to match the loss of Andover Town legend, Alan Mussell. The team wore black armbands and before kick-off the players and the crowd joined in a minute of heartfelt applause for Alan.

Recent hat trick hero Malachi Johnson started again standing in for Josh Bertie who was away on international duty for the British Virgin Islands against Puerto Rico in the Concacaf Nations League.

If Town were looking for a fast start they certainly got it in the 4th minute when full back Lewis Williams was on hand at the back post to steer a cross from Ben Emans into the net. Andover started the half very brightly and seemed to be more energised than in the past few matches. Ryan Griffiths looked very sharp right from the off as did many and it was no surprise when in the 26th minute a stinging shot from Zach Hines was parried by the keeper and Ben Emans slotted home coolly making the score 2-0. Town were dominating at this stage and in the 31st minute Ryan Griffiths had a tap in after a great cross from Ben Emans. Milbrook were not helped when number 10 Gray was sent off after what looked like stamping. The referee was right by the incident and had no hesitation in the immediate dismissal. Town were playing with real freedom and creating many chances and Malachi Johnson broke into the area in the 41st minute and directed his shot from the edge of the area into the net. Half time score 4-0, not a half time scoreline which has not been too familiar this season.

Again Town started the second half brightly playing with real purpose and were certainly making their one man advantage count. Millbrook were getting more and more stretched and it was no real surprise when in the 52nd minute Ben Emans slalomed through several defenders and shot low and hard to make the score 5-0. Further goals followed in the 69th minute when a shot was turned in by a Millbrook defender and then in the 77th minute Malachi Johnson scored his second to make the score 7-0 after 80 minutes. Andover gave their full substitution complement a good run out and all 5 came on as the game ended.

So a thoroughly enjoyable match from Town who played throughout with real spirit and togetherness. Alan Mussell would have been thrilled with the best performance of the season which reflected well on an emotional evening for everyone. Next match is on Saturday April 1st away at Amesbury Town kick off 3pm.