Match Report

Diamonds began 2022 in perfect fashion with a resounding win over St Ives on New Year’s Day.

After a couple of early chances, they took the lead in the 16th minute when Nathan Tshikuna stormed forward before clinically slotting a low effort past the keeper from the edge of the area. Rushden doubled their advantage a minute later when a long ball found Ty Deacon in behind who poked home. Though Nabil Shariff drew a good save from Snedker for the visitors, Diamonds were in control and added another before half-time when Jesse Akubuine fired home first-time following a low ball in.

The Saints were unfortunate not to pull one back in the second half when a goalmouth scramble led to a crucial block and two important Snedker saves, and down the other end AJ George rounded the keeper only to see his shot come back off the post. The away side were then reduced to ten men when defender Callum Milne shoved over Ty Deacon in the area as he looked set to score, and Tshikuna stepped up only for his effort to be well saved. However, Nathan Tshikuna soon earned another penalty after being tripped which he dispatched with aplomb for his second goal of the game. Substitute Will Jones almost rounded off the victory when his long-range strike was superbly tipped onto the bar, but it didn’t affect the result as Diamonds claimed their sixth win in their last seven.

Preview

COVID-19 Precautions

Please make yourself aware of these measures when visiting Hayden Road this afternoon.

• Masks must be worn in Dale’s Bar and in the Club Shop. This is now mandatory and a legal requirement.
• We will re-establish the red zone behind the dugouts and around the tunnel area.
• You will be asked and recommended to use the available hand-sanitizer on entry into the ground and use face masks whilst at the game as much as possible.

Ticket Details

Please note that you can purchase your tickets in advance via ticketsource or pay by contactless payment at the turnstile. There is no cash turnstile.