STANSFELD 0-1 PHOENIX

Ahkeem Belford earns Phoenix the points.

Phoenix Sports made it two wins in four days with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Stansfeld on Tuesday night.

Darren Anslow made one change to the side that bear Bearsted on Saturday with Will Efambe coming in for Harry Smart, who picked up a knock at the weekend.

The game burst into life early on, with Phoenix creating a string of chances. On 10 minutes, Dom Morgan-Griffiths slipped Tyler Anderson through on goal, only for Stansfeld keeper, Cemal Osman, to block his effort.

Two minutes later, Jake Goodman missed a golden opportunity, heading wide from very close range after an brilliant inswinging corner from Della Verde.

Stansfeld threatened themselves shortly after, Marcus Fanson striking the inside of the post before the rebound was ruled out for offside.

Morgan-Griffiths then tried his luck from distance, firing narrowly wide as Phoenix pushed for the breakthrough which finally did come in the 26th minute.

Della Verde’s corner was once again delivered with precision, and Ahkeem Belford rose highest to thump home the opener – a goal Phoenix fully deserved after their bright start.

Darren Anslow’s men continued to press before the break, with Anderson creating danger down the right and Dos Santos going close with a header. At the other end, goalkeeper Sam Freeman was called into action on 41 minutes, producing a superb low save from the lively Fanson to preserve the lead.

There was a blow for Phoenix just before half-time as Belford was forced off with a knock and replaced by Ben Morrison at the restart.

The second half proved scrappier, with Phoenix struggling to find their rhythm in possession but standing firm defensively.

Dos Santos blazed over on the hour mark in one of few chances created after the interval, but despite one or two nervy moments, Stansfeld didn’t create a clear cut chance and the visitors held out to claim all three points.

The result secures Phoenix their second win in quick succession and moves them up to 11th in the table ahead of Saturday’s clash with Snodland (3pm) at the Christopher Russell Stadium.