(4-4-2)

Andrews, G Dawson, Moore, Rogers, P Dawson, Murray, Johnson, Gall, Eyre, Del Favero (Dunlop 70), Withey

CPR finally gained their first victory of the season – and lifted themselves off the bootm of the league in he process – with this comfortable triumph over fellow-strugglers Fulham. Coming as it did with four regular players missing, the won was all the more creditable.

Things got off to a good start for CPR, when they were awarded a penalty for a blatant handball. However, Matt missed the resulting spot-kick; his first penalty miss for the club. However, CPR’s top scorer made amends midway through the first half, heading home a pinpoint Jon Murray cross; his first headed goal for the club.

Matt and Jon M had chances to increase the lead before half-time as CPR dominated.

But early in the second half, some sloppy defensive play let in the Fulham striker for the equaliser and started the CPR nerves jangling. Unlike, previous weeks, however, CPR immediately regained control of the match.

Matt hit a post with a free kick before man of the match Jason Johnson smashed home the second goal after Fulham had failed to clear a corner.

The match was sealed with twenty minutes to go when substitute Andy Dunlop made an immediate impact. The Dundee United supporter made even his team captain smile with a strong run and low drive past the keeper, a mere sixty seconds after coming on to make his CPR debut.

CPR had further chances to add to the lead, but the relief at the final whistle was obvious as the Blues celebrated a well-earned win.

Final score: CPR 3, Fulham Saracens 1

Match Reporter: Garry Griffin