Wealdstone secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Woking at the Laithwaite Community Stadium in a National League match characterised by its intensity and tactical adjustments. The win sees the visitors maintain their strong start to the season, claiming all three points.
Wealdstone took the lead in the 14th minute, courtesy of a Max Kretzschmar penalty. Despite periods of sustained pressure, Wealdstone were unable to extend their advantage, and the first half concluded with the visitors holding a single-goal lead.
Woking emerged with renewed purpose after the interval, and their efforts were rewarded in the 57th minute when Oliver Sanderson scored, assisted by Matt Ward. This goal injected energy into Woking’s play, leading to a more open contest as both teams searched for a decisive goal.
A pivotal moment arrived in the 76th minute when Wealdstone manager Sam Cox introduced Nathan Tshikuna. Just nine minutes later, Tshikuna, assisted by Dominic Hutchinson, restored Wealdstone’s lead. Woking pressed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but the Wealdstone defence remained resolute.
Referee Isaac Searle issued a total of seven yellow cards during the match. Wealdstone’s Jack Cook, Alfie Massey, Sean Jordan Adarkwa, Enzio Boldewijn and Dominic Hutchinson were cautioned, as was Woking’s Oliver Sanderson. Wealdstone manager Sam Cox was also shown a yellow card for dissent.
Both sides made multiple substitutions in the second half in an attempt to alter the course of the match. Wealdstone brought on Dylan Kadji and Micah Obiero in the 63rd minute, followed by Nathan Tshikuna in the 76th minute and Phillip Chinedu in the 89th minute. Woking responded by introducing Aiden O’Brien and Josh Osude in the 85th and 86th minutes, respectively, and Jake Hyde in the 91st minute, but these changes ultimately failed to unlock the Wealdstone defence.
This victory elevates Wealdstone to the top of the National League table with a perfect record of three wins from three. Conversely, Woking find themselves near the foot of the table, still searching for their first points after three defeats. While the season is still young, Woking will need to improve quickly, while Wealdstone will aim to maintain their impressive form and challenge for promotion.