CSKA II secured a 3-1 victory over Bardon Hill, earning David Thompson his first win as caretaker manager in a game heavily shaped by the strong wind and a determined second-half defensive effort.

The visitors started positively and took the lead in the 20th minute when Archie Ball bullied the Bardon Hill left-back off the ball before striking low to the goalkeeper’s left to make it 1-0.

Bardon nearly equalised shortly after, with a one-on-one effort cannoning down off the crossbar. While the home side protested that the ball had crossed the line, CSKA played on, with Ben Lewin launching a long ball to Irfan Patel, who squared for Heath Moore to calmly slot into the bottom corner for his first CSKA goal.

Bardon appeared rattled, and CSKA took full advantage. The third goal summed up the possession-based style the side is trying to play, with Archie Ball and Harry Pitchford combining neatly on the right flank before Pitchford squared low to Irfan Patel, who found space and finished easily to make it 3-0.

The second half was always going to be difficult, with the wind picking up and CSKA forced to defend for long periods. Bardon pulled one back when a lucky ricochet fell to their speedy striker, who raced clear and finished a one-on-one to reduce the deficit.

From there, CSKA dug in and weathered the storm. Highlights included a perfectly timed goal-line clearance from Luke Hall at the back post and a spectacular save from Ben Lewin, who flew through the air to deny Bardon from a free-kick just outside the box.

After the game, the management group praised debutant centre-back Caleb for his performance, particularly his willingness to play out from the back despite conceding possession in the build-up to Bardon’s goal. The message was clear: players will not be criticised for trying to play positive football, and the side will continue to encourage bravery on the ball as part of its long-term philosophy.

The result marks a significant milestone for the second team, combining attacking quality in the first half with resilience and discipline in the second to secure a fully deserved three points.