United started Gary Johnson’s reign as first team manager with three points in a dominant display against Hungerford Town.
Jamie Reid and Asa Hall got on the scoresheet together for the second time this season.
United created their first opportunity in the 7th minute when Jamie Reid found some space down the right channel to get a shot away from a narrow angle. Goalkeeper Jokull Andresson got two strong hands on his effort to keep it out.
United took the lead in the 26th minute; Jake Andrews’ first of two assists on the day. His free-kick was aided by a near-post run by Ruairi Keating who occupied the thoughts of defenders and goalkeeper. The ball made it across to Jamie Reid who finished first-time past Andresson.
United had a rare moment of worry when Hungerford players appealed for a handball against George Essuman in the 35th minute. It was waived away by referee Tom Bishop.
United were stamping their authority on the game with every header and second ball won. It was to continue in the second half.
Hungary’s best chance came when Conor Lynch broke away on goal. Alex Bass came out but Lynch chipped him, but Ben Wynter was there to clear the danger.
United’s intensive play was beginning to create more space and time on the ball.
United doubled their lead in the 62nd minute when Jake Andrews’ corner was met by Asa Hall who glanced a header into the far corner. It sent United and the Yellow Army into rapture.
Substitute Jason Banton struck the bar with a well-struck shot from 25 yards and United pressed for a third.
Brett Williams thought he had added a third as the second half came to a around the 90th minute. The players celebrated, the Yellow Army celebrated, but the assistant referee had had his flag raised for some time. The referee hadn’t either. He ruled United’s goal out and the Hungerford took a quick free-kick and tried to catch United out at the back.
United got back to winning ways with a performance that could spark their season. New manager Gary Johnson will be pleased his team’s first step forward.
TUFC: Bass, Wynter, Davis, Essuman, Keating (Williams 84’), Hall (C), Cameron, Andrews, Reid (Wright 84’), Regis, Edwards. Subs: (not used) Bawling, MacDonald.
Hungerford Town: Andresson, Johnson-Schuster (C), Jones, Ouldridge (A. Whittingham 64’), Ekpiteta (Rusby 80’), Moore-Azille, Rose, Fragata (Ten-Grotenhuis 64’), Lynch, R. Whittingham, Foxley. Subs: (not used) Bailey, Herring.
Referee: Tom Bishop