Spasov at the double as Rebels win on opening day

Slough Town began their new season in the best possible manner, securing a 2-1 victory over last season’s runners-up, Chelmsford City, at Arbour Park.

The match was notable not only for the comeback engineered by Scott Davies' side but also for the Rebels' extension of their remarkable undefeated run at home to 24 matches across all competitions, a streak carried over from the previous season.

However, it was Chelmsford City who initially seized control of the match, surprising Slough with an early goal. The Clarets, who had dominated possession in the opening minutes, capitalised on a defensive lapse from the Rebels in the 7th minute.

Slough’s new goalkeeper, Charlie Horlock spread himself well to block an effort from Freddie Hockey to deny Chelmsford the lead, sending the ball safely behind for a corner.

But Ryan Blackman’s flag kick, delivered with precision, appeared to receive a slight deflection at the near post, yet the goal was credited directly to Blackman, putting the visitors ahead.

Slough, seemingly caught off guard, struggled to find their rhythm. Chelmsford continued to press high, and their pressure nearly resulted in a second goal. Kane Critchlow came agonisingly close to doubling the visitors' lead when his long-range effort struck the crossbar in the 23rd minute. It was a moment of relief for the Slough supporters as they watched the ball ricochet off the woodwork and out of play.

Hockey was denied by a brilliant save from Horlock on 33 minutes, the keeper making a block when one-on-one following a defensive mistake.

The first half was a tense affair, with Slough finding it difficult to establish a foothold in the game. Chelmsford’s dominance was evident, and they had another golden opportunity to extend their lead just before the break. Freddie Hockey found himself one-on-one with Horlock, but his shot flew over the bar. Horlock’s quick reaction and ability to close down the space were crucial in preventing what could have been a decisive blow to Slough's hopes.

Slough's first meaningful attempt came through John Gilbert, but his shot was comfortably saved by Chelmsford’s Ted Collins. The half-time whistle blew with the Rebels trailing by a goal, and it was clear that changes were needed if they were to overturn the deficit.

Scott Davies responded decisively at half-time by introducing Gary Abisogun in place of Kweku Lucan. The substitution seemed to inject new energy into Slough’s attack, although it took some time for them to translate this into clear-cut chances. Another substitution followed in the 55th minute, with John Ufuah replacing David Ogbonna. This change would prove pivotal.

As the second half progressed, Slough began to assert themselves more in the game, creating half-chances and testing the Chelmsford defence. The introduction of Ufuah added a new dimension to Slough's attacking play, and it was his work down the wing that eventually led to the equaliser. In the 65th minute, Ufuah delivered a low cross into the box, and Slavi Spasov slid in to get the crucial touch, sending the ball past Collins to bring Slough level.

The momentum had clearly shifted, and just six minutes later, Slough capitalised on their newfound dominance. A well-delivered corner from John Gilbert found Spasov, who rose unchallenged to head the ball into the net, completing the comeback and putting the Rebels in front. The Arbour Park crowd erupted in celebration, sensing that victory was now within their grasp.

Chelmsford, having conceded twice in quick succession, struggled to regain their composure. Despite their earlier control of the game, they found it difficult to create meaningful opportunities as Slough’s defence, marshalled by captain Dan Bayliss alongside new central defensive partner Lexus Beeden, stood firm.

Slough almost added a third goal in the 77th minute when Davies, stepping up to take a free-kick from just outside the box, struck the crossbar.

As the match entered its final stages, Chelmsford made further changes, introducing Kalvin Kalala and Jake Hyde in a bid to find an equaliser. However, the Slough defence remained resolute, and the visitors were unable to fashion any clear chances. Chelmsford’s best opportunity came in stoppage time, but Kalala’s cross was deflected and safely gathered by Horlock, ensuring that Slough held on to their slender lead.

The final whistle blew to confirm Slough’s 2-1 victory, a result that marked a significant statement of intent for the Rebels as they embark on the new season. Scott Davies’ tactical adjustments and the impact of his substitutes were instrumental in turning the game around, while Spasov’s clinical finishing ensured that the Rebels’ unbeaten run at Arbour Park continued.

For Chelmsford City, the match was a tale of missed opportunities and a loss of control in the second half. Despite their early dominance, they were unable to secure the points as the Rebels fought back. The victory for Slough Town not only boosts their confidence but also sets a positive tone for their campaign. With their home form continuing to make Arbour Park a fortress, the Rebels will be looking to build on this result.