Once again the reverses went into this game on the back of an excellent result the week before against nearest rivals Burgess Hill. Not only was it the final game of a long, hard fought season, but also, if press reports are believed to be true, Big Rio’s last game before he hangs up his boots after a distinguished career, as he partnered Smutts at the back. This seemed to spur The Archers on, as the rest of the squad, particularly the younger members who have benefited from the vastly travelled and experienced Miller, looked to bring success to his final swansong.

Fletching knew they would be in for a tough match against a Crowborough side, whom they narrowly beat one-nil earlier in the season, and whose next fixture was to be a mid week cup final. This proved to be much the case right from the kick off as Borough started to stroke the ball around with confidence although they lacked clear-cut chances thanks to a tight defence. Although slow starting The Archers began to find their feet, stringing several passes together which resulted in Powell finding himself in a great position to put Fletching ahead, only to fire his shot hard and high over the crossbar. The passage of play in the first half remained much the same with best chances falling to Borough, as Fletching went into the half time team talk on level terms thanks to some resolute defending and a fine display between the sticks from Bradley, whose recent bedtime read 'Eric Thorstvedt Goalkeeping Do’s and Don’ts' is clearly paying dividends.

Crowborough’s young side and superior fitness started to shine, as The Archers experienced line up started tire, despite good work from ‘The Dogger’ Benton who continually worked his socks off chasing the ball down. Borough took the lead after a good break down the left which saw the ball crossed in low and hard, despite the despairing lunge of Stuart ‘The Jaffa’ Jefford. The goal seemed to stun Fletching and from the restart the opposition began to pile on the pressure which resulted in a passage of fine play as they gave themselves a two goal cushion.This was the wake up call that Fletching needed as they looked to maintain their impressive home record. Carter’s vision of ‘Total Football’ was none more evident than in the second half as Fletching tried to salvage something from this game. They bombarded Borough’s goal with shot after shot, with both Benton, and Hartup forcing the keeper into action. A disappointing loss of two-nil was soon forgotten as Fletching brought a close to their most successful season yet, finishing third in the league and scoring in 21 out of 22 games.