Match Report
Thurlow Nunn Division 1 South - Friday 31st January
Barkingside 1-2 NW London
Howard Nhemachena 20' (NW London)
Joseph Koroma 34' (Barkingside)
Arianit Krasniqi 84' (NW London)
NW London Secure Back-to-Back Wins with Dominant Display at Barkingside
NW London continued their winning form with a hard-fought 2-1 victory away at Barkingside on Friday night, securing their second consecutive league win in challenging conditions.
Pre-Match Context
Following an emphatic home victory over Southend Manor, the Gorillas aimed to build momentum. Traveling to a ground where they had failed to register a win in their last three visits, NW London faced a Barkingside side positioned 16th in the table, just three points behind before kick-off.
Early Dominance and Opener
Despite a rain-soaked week leaving the grass pitch increasingly muddy, NW London started brightly, carrying forward their momentum from the previous match. Their attacking intent paid off when a well-worked short corner routine saw Hugo Javaloyes' curling effort rebound off the bar, falling perfectly for Nhemachena to slot home the opener after 20 minutes.
The Gorillas nearly doubled their advantage ten minutes later when Lucas Gonzalez intercepted a clearance but could only direct his shot into the goalkeeper's hands.
Setback Before the Break
The game took a sudden turn as defender Noe Nangura was forced off with an injury. From the ensuing throw-in, Barkingside capitalized on a loose ball, with Joseph Koroma tucking in the equalizer after Pedro Souza's initial save.
Buoyed by their goal, the hosts gained confidence, creating further chances, including a shot that was cleared off the line and another effort that drifted narrowly wide.
Second-Half Control and Winning Goal
NW London emerged after the break determined to regain control, dominating possession and pinning Barkingside deep into their half. While the hosts defended resolutely, their resistance was finally broken when Lamine Gomes surged down the right flank and delivered a cross that was only partially cleared. Krasniqi reacted quickest, finding the net in the 84th minute for his ninth goal of the season.
Gonzalez came close to adding a third late on, but the Gorillas had done enough, seeing out the match with confidence as Barkingside struggled to mount a response.
Looking Ahead
A crucial victory for NW London, who not only claimed the three points but also showed encouraging squad depth. They now turn their attention to a home clash against FC Baresi on Tuesday night, looking to extend their winning streak further.