Tadley Calleva still well in contention, despite narrow Whyteleafe loss

Tadley Calleva suffered defeat on Saturday as they hosted second place AFC Whyteleafe.

The visitors set the tone early, breaking the deadlock after just seven minutes with a smart finish into the roof of the net.

They kept up this pressure, creating opportunities and troubling the Calleva defence for much of the opening 20 minutes.

The 26th minute saw Tadley get back on level terms however, as Connor Thorne pressured the Whyteleafe defence to force a ball through to Kieran Rodgers, who slotted home calmly one on one with the keeper.

Just two minutes later Calleva were straight back under pressure, as Brad Neal cleared off the line to keep the scores level.

The visitors would retake the lead in the 32nd minute, as a lofted ball to the back post was squared for an easy tap in.

Jonathan Efedje replaced Sheldon Wright at the break, hoping to inject some more energy into Calleva’s attack.

The second half was a hard fought contest, as a midfield battle ensued and few chances of note were created.

The 69th minute saw a gilt edged chance for Tadley to draw level, as Kieron Farmer rose from a crowded box to meet Jordan Goater’s corner.

His header smashed against the post as the scores remained level.

Efedje would create another great chance ten minutes later, as he won a 50/50 with a stranded Whyteleafe goalkeeper to put himself through on an empty goal.

This was called back however, adding to frustrations in a game where tempers had already flared.

As Calleva continued to push, time ticked on, and in the 93rd minute there was a sting in the tail.

Whyteleafe grabbed their third of the day to wrap up a tight contest, as they hit Tadley on the break and slotted home for 3-1.

Calleva’s dream start to the season has served them well, with Joe Lawler’s side finding themselves seventh in the Combined Counties League Premier Division South after eight games played.

They’re just one point away from the play-off spots and already have multiple games in hand on the top five thanks to their cup exploits.

A trip away to Abbey Rangers this Saturday, who currently occupy the final play-off spot, should provide a chance for Calleva to further prove their promotion credentials.