Brandao’s goal against Burnham helps Virginia Water pick up their 10th win of league campaign

An own goal and a smart finish from Andrio Brandao consigned Burnham to a 2-1 defeat in their final competitive match at home before Christmas, with the Blues sitting 10th in the Combined Counties Premier Division North before tomorrow evening’s (Tuesday) game against Wokingham & Emmbrook and Virginia Water occupying third ahead of their clash with Chalfont St Peter this weekend.

Ben Murray’s men got off to a reasonably strong start against the high-flying Waters at the 1878 Stadium on Saturday afternoon and they had the advantage at the break thanks to prolific forward Jabir Laraba.

However – as they have done on many occasions this season – Adam Sams’ side came out in the second half with newfound intensity and dominated play to pick up their 10th win of their league campaign.

Reflecting on the triumph, forward Brandao said to the Advertiser this week: “It was a great win at the weekend. I think we had a bit of a slow start to the match, we didn’t get into it as we should’ve, but we found weaknesses in their game in the second half and exploited them.

“As the team grew into the match, so did I. I had a few chances in the first half, but I felt that there were many spaces I could pick up to cause problems to the full backs in the second half. At the break, we changed it up so I could play wider and take on Burnham’s defenders a lot more.

“This season we have done well but I believe we can do even better. There have been a few games we should have won. Last season, we finished seventh which was very good. The target now is promotion.

“Working under Adam has been great. Before he took over, he was part of the coaching team, so it was a smooth transition for him and us. I feel there has been more competition with him taking the reins. Everyone is more dedicated to ensuring they keep their place through working hard in training and games.”

Next up for Virginia Water is a Challenge Cup second round tie against AFC Croydon Athletic at Stag Meadow (Tuesday, December 12).