MILLMEAD 1, TONGHAM 2 (Surrey Intermediate League Premier Div)

TONGHAM’S improved form continued with a convincing win over fellow strugglers Millmead in what could have been described as a pre-Christmas six-pointer.

At a bitterly cold Surrey Sports Park, Tongham lined up 4-4-2 and it was back to basics as they battled to only their second league win of the season.

Millmead fed long balls to their busy striker, while Tongham looked to hit through-balls towards Dan Carter, but the wind proved a major obstacle for both sides.

The game sparked into life after 25 minutes when Millmead forced a fine save from Nick Garwood and with Tongham struggling to clear their lines, the follow-up shot smacked against the post.

Tongham had another huge let-off as a lofted through-ball eluded Martin White and Neil Grimes and an attempted chip bounced off the bar and back into Garwood’s arms.

Having escaped unscathed into half-time, Tongham were now playing uphill, but with the wind behind them.

Tim Rosewell had a goal disallowed for offside, but Tongham continued to press higher up the pitch and were finally rewarded when Carter supplied a good cross and White headed powerfully into the top corner.

Liam Henchy came on to play up front as Carter moved out to the right, and it was all Tongham from then on.

The visitors doubled their lead when Max Thurgar’s delightful through-pass was taken by Rosewell in his stride and he lifted the ball over the onrushing keeper into the net.

Henchy scuffed his shot when he had a great chance for a third goal and Millmead narrowed the deficit in the dying moments when John Wyatt scrambled the ball home after a free-kick.