Magic of Midweek

A midweek game, under the lights. The first midweek game of the new competitive season. Magic.

Tuesday night games at Imperial Fields have always felt a bit special to me. Yes, the crowd is often smaller. Yes, they tend to be rearranged league games or more often than not, one of the myriad of cup games- most of which are of less interest to a fair section of our support. But I have to admit that I absolutely love them. To me, midweek games are sort of our Champions League. Except that in the grand scheme of things, of course they’re not. But watching my team, under the floodlights, in a slightly different atmosphere, where the grass smells slightly different, and the sound bounces around the stadium in a different way, is absolutely magic. 

We started really well. The first goal came from excellent wing play. The ball on the left wing was played across the goal, falling to Tom Jelley on the opposite side who had a wonderful effort from the corner of the box well saved by the Bedfont keeper. Some great positioning from Dan Williams meant it fell straight at his feet and he curled it beautifully into the corner. As smart a finish as you’ll see- Magic.

We had some encouraging spells in the first half, mostly along that left wing, with Phillips and Simpson linking up impressively on a few occasions. Later in the half, Simpson was hacked down in the area for a penalty which was duly converted by Jake Rose. 2-0 up at halftime. Magic.

At halftime, I found myself in a bit of a philosophical discussion on football, no doubt helped by the copious ingestion of lager from the bar. We talked about how team sports are won through ability, controlling the space, and a hint of luck. The game against Bedfont was arguably the first time this season where I felt we have had the edge at all 3 of these elements. If we continue to achieve 2 of those 3 things in every game this season then we’ll be promoted - You heard it here first.

The second half started with Bedfont upping their tempo and putting pressure on us, as was to be expected. Indeed, a few players caused us some problems - Bedfont had some attackers with real pace and dribbling ability. Luckily, our defence looked strong once again and we never really looked particularly troubled. It has now been over 10 hours since we conceded in open play. Magic.

We finally scored our third goal, which was well deserved, with around 15 minutes or so left on the clock.  It was almost a bit of a repeat of the first goal.  Some great passing - this time through tighter channels and a more robust defensive shape by our opponents, resulted in a curling effort by Jake Rose being well saved by the Bedfont ‘keeper, and Danny Williams was ready and waiting to turn it in. We never looked like losing. Magic.

Bedfont had won their last 3 games and were only a point behind us at the start of the evening.  By the end of it we were 3rd on goal difference and 4 points clear of our opponents -  a good barometer of where we sit in comparison to other outfits in the league.

I’ve spoken to a few “relative newcomers” at Imperial fields since the start of the season. We’ve had a fair few new faces about. We’ve had season ticket holders of Crystal Palace, Fulham, Chelsea, West Brom, Luton, Sutton and I’m sure many more. The beauty of this is that I’ve seen most of these folks at every home game- they have a need for live sport and Tooting and Mitcham are their outlet. They must be impressed, otherwise they wouldn’t have come back again and again. On behalf of everyone involved with Tooting and Mitcham United, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. After a tough year the club appreciates the funds, and we appreciate the support. And we know that when football restarts higher up the pyramid you won’t forget us and you’ll be back and hopefully you’ll tell your mates.

I’ve been to a fair few Tuesday games over the last few years. I’ve been at a Tuesday game with around 60 people. Against Bedfont, there were 331 in attendance. To put that in context our average gate last season was 267. 331. On a wet Tuesday night in October. Magic. 

A solid start to the season, a solid win, and a blossoming support. Being a fan of the Terrors is magic at the moment. Long may it continue.