Simon Wormull made three changes to the side who lost 1-0 to Kingstonian last Saturday, with new signings; Dan Choules, Brian Galach and Keano Deacon all handed their Hillians debuts. 

Merstham started brightly, striking the post in the 15th minute, as Osbourne’s cross deceived everyone. In the 23rd minute, Figueria’s snapshot rebounded back off James’ right-hand post – with the forward just managing to beat the offside trap. In the 29th minute, the Hillians opened the scoring, as Michael Wilson’s delicious free-kick was met by James Richmond who side-footed the ball past the helpless Tangara. The first half ended with a save each from James and Tangara – as both sides continued to trade blows. 

HT 1-0. 

The Hillians started the second half at a great tempo, with Deacon and Harding both forcing good saves out of Tangara. In the 62nd minute, Pope passed up a golden opportunity to double the Hillians’ lead, as he blasted high and wide from a promising position. Elphick defended outstandingly throughout, throwing himself in front of every shot. Two goals in two minutes fired the Hillians into a three-goal lead, with Pope firing a thunderous free-kick into the top corner before Keano Deacon opened his Hillians account in stoppage time with a lovely run and finish. 

FT 3-0. 

A joyous afternoon at the Green Elephants Stadium, with the Hillians putting on a show for the 399 in the ground – picking up a crucial three points!

The Hillians MOTM was awarded to Gary Elphick, who defended heroically throughout the ninety minutes – including one of the ‘Block’s of the Season’.

Next up, we’re off to Leatherhead!