WINDSOR WIN AT BASEMENT BADSHOT

Windsor produced a hard working performance to consign hosts Badshot Lea to relegation on Saturday afternoon.

On a blisteringly hot day, reminiscent of a July pre-season match, Mick Woodham had to contend with the absence of key players Riccardo Cannon, Mano Goganos, Haydon Clack, George Gould and Keiran Knight. Jacob Cook was also missing from the team who played the previous Tuesday evening.

The pitch, in need of some liquid refreshment, was a leveller, but in truth Windsor always looked comfortable.

Nadir Shafi caused problems early on, crossing for the returning Yash Romeo who was unable to get on the end of the bobbling ball.

Dunbar and Romeo were industrious and it was Barry Dunbar who opened the scoring. His speculative cross shot found the top corner of the goal before nestling in the back of the net along with Badshot's back-peddling keeper.

If truth be told, Windsor saw plenty of the ball for the remainder of the first half without really threatening.

Robert Lazarczuk dragged a couple of shots wide and Hugo Sobte dealt with the two long range free kick efforts fired his way.

Frustratingly, Windsor switched off momentarily deep into first half injury time and conceded a soft equaliser.

Refocused at half time, the impressive back three trio of Brad Pearce, Andy Ingram and Ashley Smith snuffed out any Badshot breaks.

Pearce in a short space of time is showing his versatility and Ingram perhaps bedding into a new long term role, an understanding of the discipline needed to be successful in the position.

Windsor didn't trouble the home keeper enough, although having plenty of possession. Taufee Skandari with a trick or two kept the home defence on their toes and Shafi made sure the Badshot full back didn't creep too far forward.

Ultimately, it was Lazarczuk who made the difference. His smart ball into Yash Romeo saw the defence the wrong side of Romeo who made sure he'd either get a shot away or draw the foul.

The defender obliged by bundling Romeo over and Lazarcuk made sure of giving Windsor the lead by firing the spot kick home.

As Badshot pushed forward for an equaliser, gaps were left and it was Lazarczuk again with a smart through ball to Nadir Shafi. Shafi rounded the advancing keeper and slotted home.

A game Windsor could be described as being uncomfortably comfortable throughout, but with so many changes to contend with, the players should be congratulated for their application on a bone-hard playing surface and very hot day.