Sheerwater travelled to Guildford looking to get back to winning ways, while the hosts were desperate to end a run of twelve straight league defeats.
The Sheers welcomed Tom Gardner back into the starting lineup, with Emeka joining him up front. Roberto Rocha made his league debut in goal, replacing the unavailable Drew Churchwell, who missed out through illness.
First Half
The opening stages saw Sheerwater dominate possession, but Guildford’s deep defensive setup left little room to exploit. Alfie Burton worked tirelessly in midfield and came close after 15 minutes, flashing a long-range effort just wide of the post.
Guildford remained compact, often defending with ten men behind the ball—understandable given their league position. The Sheers continued to press, and from a well-delivered corner, skipper McLaughlin’s header was scrambled clear by the Guildford defence.
Despite growing frustration, Sheerwater rarely looked threatened. Guildford were restricted to hopeful long balls toward their isolated striker, all confidently dealt with by the assured Rocha. It felt only a matter of time before the Sheers found a breakthrough.
That breakthrough nearly came on 44 minutes when a deflected shot fell kindly to Kareem Foster ten yards out. With the goal at his mercy, Foster opted for a near-post finish, but the Guildford keeper produced a fine save. Goalless at the break.
Second Half
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Sheerwater content to control the tempo and probe patiently for an opening. With Gardner, McLaughlin, both Mackies, and Rocha all looking composed, it seemed certain the Sheers would at least come away with a point—if not all three.
Manager TJ Barbato made a double substitution around the hour mark, introducing Valter and Leeks for Okpakpu and Foster. The change paid immediate dividends. Just two minutes later, a driven cross from the impressive Aidan Larkin was expertly brought under control by Leeks. Valter then took over, gliding past two defenders before confidently firing home with his left foot—a sweet moment for the former Guildford man.
The goal transformed the contest. Confidence surged, and Sheerwater went close to doubling their lead when Leeks’ fierce drive was cleared off the line. Dan Boyden replaced the tireless Burton and immediately brought energy down the left flank.
The victory was sealed in the 90th minute when the outstanding Gardner rose highest at the back post to head home, leaving the Guildford keeper with no chance.
Full-Time: Guildford City 0–2 Sheerwater
A composed and confident away performance sees Sheerwater climb to sixth in the table after 14 games—their best-ever start to a league campaign at this level.
Silva, Mackie C, Gardner, Mackie G, Portbury, Burton (boyden 78), Ajibola, Foster (Leeks 58), McLaughlin, Okakpu (Valter 58), Larkin (Vorukov 79) Adams (NP)