Dulwich Maintain Perfect Start To Progress in Cup - Dulwich Hamlet vs. Hythe Town

It was a stormy day in South London

This Saturday, I had intended to attend South Kilburn vs. Epsom Athletic in the Combined Counties Division One but numerous factors made me change my mind. The prevailing one being that Vale Farm offers no cover and considering the storms that were heading towards London, my hand was pretty much forced. I'd been to Champion Hill three previous times and never seen Dulwich lose. The most 'unforgettable' game being when I rushed back to London from Stoke to see Tooting get thrashed 4-1 by a rampant Hamlet. I'd also seen Hythe once before in the FA Cup, losing 5-1 to Woking at Kingsfield in a replay where the score certainly didn't accurately reflect the game.

The main stand at Champions Hill

Dulwich had won their first two league games and scored seven goals without reply in the process and so went in to the game as favourites. They have the first effort on goal when an effort from just outside the box which goes just wide of the post in the opening minute. Dulwich have a lot in the final third but are out muscled by the Hythe defence. Hythe have a lot of sucess on the wings but fail to find an accurate cross. Dulwich come close in the final moments but the first half finishes goaless.

A Dulwich throw in the first half

The second half kicks off in the middle of a torrential downpour which causes the ball to stick in the middle of the park. This changes the complexion of the game and it is the home side who adapt better to the conditions. They dominate possession and Hythe aim to catch them on the break. As the rain continues to pour, the home side take the lead. After a bit of a scramble following a corner, the ball is finally forced home and Dulwich take the lead. Hythe try in vain for an equaliser but it is the Hamlet who continue their perfect start and progress to the next round. 

Dulwich attack in the second half

Champion Hill is a five minute walk away from East Dulwich Station. Trains to East Dulwich Station depart from London Bridge Station on a regular basis and the journey takes just over ten minutes. After the game before my journey back towards Colliers Wood, I stopped off at The Cherry Tree which has only just opened and has a fantastic array of drinks on offer. The clubhosue at the ground is also pretty fantastic. You can watch the game from the bar if you fancy and it has Sky Sports.

Hythe looking for a first half strike.