Guildford City produced an impressive performance to beat Reigate Priory 2-0 in Division One of the Southern Combination Football League.

The first half was an even affair, with Guildford’s players showing signs of nervousness.

City had good possession early on and the first shot of the game from Luke Mitchell after two minutes saw Reigate keeper Andy Greaves comfortably save low down to his right.

Early on Keone Pillay saw a lot of the ball on the left, and from one cross Tyreke Martin’s effort was blocked six metres out. On 12 minutes Josh Bullen’s effort was comfortable saved.

After this early burst of action, the game was uneventful, with City largely having to defend an inordinate number of free kicks.

Guildford settled after the break and for a significant spell looked the livelier. On 54 minutes the deadlock was broken when Mitchell headed home Dan Way’s free kick.

Guildford had all the play at this point. Harry Hennem shot wide, and Mitchell hit the post after a fine drag back in the box. Minutes later Bullen saw his effort palmed up onto the crossbar by Greaves.

Momentum started to shift as Reigate looked for an equaliser. On 75 minutes Reigate won a penalty, but in a game-defining moment City keeper Jacob Slyfield got down low and saved Sam Luard’s spot kick.

Five minutes later Harry Rossetti struck the post for the home side and City were defending desperately.

Then on 85 minutes Mitchell stepped up to calm the nerves. On the counter a high bouncing ball caused problems in the last line of Reigate’s defence and Mitchell collected the ball and calmly lobbed the goalkeeper to make it 2-0.

City saw out the remainder of the game with little drama, gaining a very welcome three points.

By Barry Underwood