It was another good test for the Boatmen against National League South opposition as Dorking Wanderers ran out 3-0 winners at the Mortgage Decisions Stadium.

A first half goal from Denton Lewis along with strikes from Alfie Rutherford & Josh Hebert in the second period were enough to give Marc White’s side the victory despite some excellent Sholing chances throughout the game.

It was an even contest for much of the afternoon, with Sholing matching the Wanderers stride for stride for the majority of the first hour of proceedings.

It was the Boatmen who had the first chance of the afternoon as Dan Mason got in behind the Dorking defence and rounded the keeper before being denied by a Brennan Camp clearance on the line.

Dorking soon hit back and were in front moments later, with Denton Lewis putting the finishing touches to a rapid counter attack.

The visitors remained on top for most of the opening period and could have doubled their lead from a corner, but Tony Craig’s header floated over the crossbar.

The Boatmen did find their feet and battled their way back into the game and were almost level after Dan Jones was played through, but he couldn’t keep his effort on target.

Sholing remained in the ascendency going into the second period and came mighty close to a leveller on the hour mark, but Michael Folivi’s close range effort was well saved after some excellent build up play from Jake Hesketh.

Dorking remained a threat on the counter and almost doubled their lead moments later, but Charlie Searle was alert to keep out an Alfie Rutherford header.

Rutherford wasn’t to be denied for long though as he soon got Dorking’s second of the game with a well taken header.

Sholing kept battling away and had a huge penalty shout turned down after Folivi appeared to be fouled in the area.

However, it didn’t take long for Dorking to grab their third of the afternoon, with Josh Hebert finishing off  a slick team move.

It could’ve been even better for Wanderers if not for a smart stop from Searle as the clock ticked towards 90.

3-0 it finished with the scoreline not quite reflecting what was a promising performance from the Boatmen against a side that narrowly missed out on promotion to the National League in the previous campaign.

Next up for Sholing is the visit of Bashley on Tuesday 22nd June in what will be our fourth pre season test. Kick off 7:45pm at The Mortgage Decisions Stadium.

Written by Harry Adams, Match Reporter – Sholing FC