Match Report: Cray Wanderers 0-0 Whitehawk

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Match Report: Cray Wanderers 0-0 Whitehawk

26th October 2024

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Match Report: Cray Wanderers 0-0 Whitehawk – 22nd October 2024

Whitehawk FC came away with a valuable point at Flamingo Park in a 0-0 draw against Cray Wanderers. In his debut as manager, Dave Altendorff guided the team through a promising display that saw the Hawks create multiple chances while maintaining a solid defensive structure.

First Half

The Hawks approached the game with attacking intent from the first whistle, showing energy and determination. Kai Jennings tested Cray’s keeper Rowley in the 11th minute, marking the Hawks’ first real shot on target. Shortly after, O’Sullivan delivered a precise cross into the box, finding Mensah, who forced Rowley into a low save in the 23rd minute.

As the half progressed, Whitehawk continued to dominate possession and created several promising situations. In the 43rd minute, Luer won a free-kick just outside the box after a foul by King. Luer’s free-kick, however, struck the wall, keeping the game goalless at half-time. Despite the lack of goals, it was a half filled with positive signs and attacking potential from the Hawks.

Second Half

The second half saw Cray Wanderers increase their intensity, but Whitehawk’s defense stood firm. As Cray began to press harder, Huffer proved essential, making a crucial save in the 83rd minute to deny Raymond and keep the game level. Late in the game, Lambert had a shot, but it went wide, and neither side could find the breakthrough before the final whistle.

Post-Match Comments from Dave Altendorff

Reflecting on his first match in charge, Dave Altendorff shared insight into the whirlwind of the past 48 hours and his approach to the game:

“It’s been a whirlwind 48 hours, especially coming off a quick trip back from Amsterdam and stepping into this role. But I’m really proud of how the lads responded. Despite the short transition, we saw some excellent play, especially in the first half. The players adapted to a slightly new style without much preparation, and that’s testament to the talent in this squad.

Altendorff noted that the team’s first-half performance, which showcased entertaining and attacking football, was exactly what he wanted to see from the players:

“The lads bought into it straight away, and we played some really entertaining football in the first half. We created plenty of chances and hopefully gave the supporters something to smile about. We lacked the finishing touch today, but you could see the intent.”

Addressing the challenges of the second half, Altendorff praised Cray Wanderers while acknowledging Whitehawk’s need to maintain their intensity:

“Cray are a solid side, and in the second half, they came back strong. You could see our energy levels drop a bit due to fatigue, but I think a draw was a fair result in the end. Both teams had chances to win it. What’s important is that we’ve stopped the bad run, kept a clean sheet, and gained a point away from home, which is always tough.”

Looking forward, Altendorff expressed confidence in his squad and dismissed any talk of relegation battles:

“Some might look at our position on the table and talk about a relegation fight. But we don’t see it that way. This group has the quality to climb up the table, and our goal is to start building momentum, picking up points, and climbing as high as we can.”

Full-Time: Cray Wanderers 0-0 Whitehawk

In his first outing, Altendorff’s impact was evident as Whitehawk delivered a disciplined and resilient performance. With a clean sheet and a renewed sense of direction, the Hawks will aim to build on this foundation and push forward in the league.