Slough Town 3, Aveley 0

THERE was to be no 'bounce back' win after confirmation of Aveley's relegation from the Vanarama National League South last week and, in contrast to some recent performances, they went down rather tamely on Saturday (5 April) at Arbour Park.

Slough started brightly and almost took the lead in the opening minutes, with Slavi Spasov proving a lively presence down the right. A dangerous cross was inches beyond Ogbonna at the far post, and the Bulgarian forward later curled an effort just over from the edge of the box.

The early pressure paid off in the 12th minute. Johnny Goddard delivered a pinpoint corner and Guy Hollis rose highest to nod home.

Aveley looked for a response and managed to get into a few promising positions without testing Horlock. Their best chance of the half came when Luke Holness fizzed a ball across the face of goal, only for Brooklyn Kabongolo to miss his connection at the back post.

Slough had further chances through Spasov and Goddard, the latter being denied by Holden before setting up John Gilbert for a shot he couldn't quite guide on target. The Rebels remained patient, however, and doubled their lead six minutes before half time.

David Ogbonna won a free kick on the edge of the box and Scott Davies curled the ball around the wall and off the post to beat James Holden.

Early in the second half Aveley had a rare sight of goal through former Slough midfielder Tyrese Owen, who fired over from inside the box. 

Slough's third arrived in the 61st minute. Sustained pressure in the Aveley box eventually saw the ball break for Josh Jackman, who drilled a low shot home.

Aveley's final chance of the match came soon after but home stopper Charlie Horlock comfortably saved a low strike from Alfie Lewis to preserve his clean sheet and that was as close as Millers came to a consolation. 

It's 54 years since Aveley beat Slough - a run that now looks likely to be extended for some time!

Aveley are on the road again next Saturday when they go to Salisbury.