The 1st XI ran out 5 – 2 winners at Balham Res FC earlier today. An early defensive mix up saw the Ruts go behind, before they promptly responded with a quick-fire trio of goals for themselves.

Billy Liffen levelled for the Ruts when he pounced at the far post to evade the keeper. This was then swiftly followed by a strong Michael Beard run and effort, which was deflected for an OG and then Zak Graham earned and duly converted a penalty to make it 3 – 1 at half time.

In the second period Jimmy Graham went on a trademark mazy run and deftly hooked the ball over the advancing keeper to make it 4 – 1.

Balham reduced the arrears very late on before Jimmy Graham scored almost immediately from the restart, Ollie Hicks knocked the restart ball to him and he promptly struck an audacious effort from the half way line. Final Score 5 – 2.

The 2nd XI gained a most welcome 3 – 0 home victory over AFC Ewell Res FC at Poplar Road. The Ruts goals came courtesy of Mason Foster, Rowan Matthews and Kyle Moore.
The 3rd XI drew 1 – 1 at Old Boys Clapham Res FC. Steve Berry slotted home a penalty strike for the OR’s.

The Ruts came close to achieving a long overdue clean sweep. Alas the 4th XI had a tall order to make that happen against a strong Old Isleworthians FC in the League Cup,  the lads eventually went down 3 – 1, with Sam Colebrook notching the OR’s consolation.

Best wishes to the Ruts Junior teams tomorrow.