It was derby day at Addlestone Moor yesterday and what better way to start the Surrey Cup than a home tie against your closest rivals, Abbey Rangers 'Reserves'.

In what was a barnstorming game of football, we progressed in the 2nd Round after a comprehensive 3-1 victory over our landlords.
The game started end to end, with chances created by both sides, but it was us that opened the scoring. Eddie Mckinlay, having only played 15 minutes all season, was finally back in Dial Square colours and what way to mark your return. He fired in a delightful low driven shot after 5 minutes, giving us the perfect start. 1-0 and the cup campaign was in full swing.

The goal did little to dent Abbey's confidence and they were soon level inside 20 minutes, from the penalty spot. 1-1 and game on.
Chances continued to come for both sides, but an assured display by Zach Ward between the sticks was more than enough to keep out Abbey for the rest of the half.
Shortly before half-time however, The Dial were ahead again! The mercurial Mark Watkins added a brilliant solo goal to make it 2-1 and that was how it stayed, as we headed into the break.

Abbey came flying out of the blocks after the restart, but could not beat our solid backline. Headed by skipper Jim Ward; Gavin Miller, Alfie Wride and Andy Tarrant have all helped in ensuring we are a much harder side to break down, over the last few weeks.
With the additions of new signing's Tony Trinder and Matt Pegg, we also look much tougher in central midfield also.
Now that Ed is back in the side and Cal Flaherty is back from injury, we are almost at full strength.

With 20 minutes remaining, Watto got the goal of the game to finish off the tie. We've said it a lot over the course of the season so far, but Mark is relentless and his goal scoring form is invaluable for this club.

In the 82nd minute, the visitors were down to 10 men after a needless strike out by their forward, on Matt Dexter.

The game finished 3-1 and we were deserved winners. Our best performance of the season so far. As a collective, the team came together and were strong from back to front. Controlling large parts of the game was a sign that things are really starting to take shape within the side.

Onto the next round!

#DialSquareReborn