MATCH REPORT: Dagenham & Redbridge 4-2 Chippenham Town | National League South | Saturday 7th February

CTFC edged out with game turned by controversy

We were left frustrated on Saturday as a spirited display ultimately ended in defeat against Dagenham & Redbridge, despite stunning goals from Caine Bradbury and a stunner from Harry Parsons.

The Bluebirds started brightly and showed real intent in the opening stages. An early chance fell to Anointed Chukwu inside the area, but he was unable to divert his effort on target, while Reece Fleet produced an excellent defensive intervention to deny the visitors at the other end.

Town continued to grow into the contest and were rewarded on 15 minutes with a moment of real quality. Harry Parsons collected the ball from distance and unleashed a superb strike that flew past the Dagenham goalkeeper to give Chippenham a deserved lead.

Both sides exchanged chances as the half progressed. Tom Owen-Evans went close from inside the area, while Will Henry was called upon to make a number of important saves, including a low free kick at the near post and a close-range header tipped onto the crossbar. Chippenham went into the break ahead, full of confidence after a strong first-half showing.

Half-time: Chippenham Town 1–0 Dagenham & Redbridge

The second half proved pivotal. Just two minutes after the restart, Reece Fleet was shown a red card for a high boot, a decision criticised by Chippenham manager Gary Horgan.

Dagenham took advantage of their numerical superiority, equalising on 54 minutes before thanks to half time substitute Aramide Oteh. Dylan Stephenson then netted after a fantastic passing move.

Stephenson was fortunate on 64 minutes to avoid a red card as he flew through Freddie Grant, with the referee of the day Jack Bloxham not brandishing a card.

Reggie Young scored on 69 minutes from a wide position inside of the penalty area.

In stoppage time a good move between academy graduates Will King and Caine Bradbury resulted in the latter slotting calmy for a goal back.

With just two minutes left of six minutes added CTFC attempted to clear long. A push on King was not seen as a foul, and with just Will Henry to beat Joe Haigh rounded him to kill the contest

Full-time: Dagenham & Redbridge 4-2 Chippenham Town