In a high intensity game between two sides in form there weren’t too many chances with both defences strong but Cray took the key opportunity just after half time after Nathan Jeche’s shot was saved by Jordan Gillmore but Clunis was on hand to score. A fine defensive rearguard action secured another three points, making it four unbeaten and a thirteenth clean sheet for Shaun Rowley. It was also the first ever Wands league win at Dover after three previous odd goal defeats.
The Wands stay 16th in the table on 25 points but are only five points behind 5th placed Dartford. Cray came into the game buoyed by gritty one nil wins at Bowers & Pitsea and at home to Chichester City on Tuesday night but Dover would pose the toughest challenge of the season having a six point lead at the top and possessing the league’s top scorer in George Nikaj with sixteen goals. For the Wands in the starting lineup there were two new loanees signed on Friday making their debuts.
Central defender Frankie-Jay Moralee in for Tom Bonner and George Penn in midfield for Charlie Edwards. Both Frankie-Jay and George have starred for the Bromley U21s and George played against Charlton Athletic in the EFL Cup in November. Despite a coastal chill the sight of the sun was a welcome sight after two successive away windfests and with the Cray support in good voice the scene was set for an enjoyable afternoon.
Dover showed their confidence with a bright start and in the 2nd minute Ruben Soares-Junior set up Ni.
