Report by Freddie Facey

A James Warder double earned Catholic United a hard-fought point at Cupids Country Club in their opening match of the season against Wakering Sports.

It was a fiery start for the hosts, as Wakering Sports forward David Watson broke the deadlock early on, finding a way past Owen Wells to take the early lead.

However, approaching the 20-minute mark, a cross was delivered into the penalty area, where James Warder fired past Wakering’s goalkeeper at the near post to bring Catholic level.

After the hydration break, Wakering Sports began to enjoy more possession in Catholic’s half. A run through on goal saw Wells dive to his left to make a comfortable save and prevent Wakering from retaking the lead.

Minutes before the end of the first half, Wakering regained the lead at Cupids Country Club, as Luke Jackson blasted his shot past Wells to send the hosts into the break ahead.

Half-time: Wakering Sports 2-1 Catholic United

The start of the second half saw Catholic United start the brightest, as a Jack Dresner free kick was crossed towards the back post, where Mike Sammut headed the ball wide.

Wakering began to build momentum, with pressure inside Catholic’s penalty area forcing Wells into a number of important saves to prevent the hosts from doubling their lead.

Approaching the half hour mark, Patrick Kearney and Zac Wing combined well around Wakering’s 18-yard box before Kearney found Warder, whose effort went off target.

With Catholic still searching for an equaliser, Eamonn Kearney made three changes with around 15 minutes remaining, as Frank Bernier, Micheal Bernier and Taylor Clark were introduced.

The visitors had a golden opportunity near the end of the match, as Stuart Nixon awarded Catholic United a penalty after a foul on Fin Woods

Warder stepped up and converted from the spot to bring Catholic level and complete his brace.

Neither side could find a late winner as the points were shared at Cupids Country Club, with Catholic beginning their title defence with a hard-fought point.

Full-Time: Wakering Sports 2-2 Catholic United
Venue: Cupids Country Club
Substitutions used: Michael Bernier, Taylor Clark and Frank Bernier.
Referee: Stuart Nixon