Wanderers picked up a vital victory against Rides United Reserves, despite playing in very difficult conditions.

The first half saw Wokingham playing into a strong wind, and as a result they struggled to pass the ball and at times even clear their lines.

Wokingham did enjoy some good spells though, with Ian Griffiths particularly effective down the right.  Midway through the first half it was he who broke the deadlock with a fine goal.  Griffiths controlled well on the edge of the box, flicked the ball into space and drove a powerful shot across the goalkeeper and into the far corner of the net.

Rides were unable to make full use of the wind, and although Nick Harding was forced to save from a Rides forward, it appeared as though Wanderers would be able to hold their advantage going into the break.  The visitors equalised with ten minutes of the half remaining.  A free-kick from the left gathered pace in the wind and curled beyond Harding and into the goal via the far post.

Wokingham almost scored a second goal before the interval.  Steve Martin's fine cross was headed up by Anthony Prior and Dave Griffiths' header was cleared off the line.

The second half saw the wind die down but only after a hailstorm caused play to be stopped.

The match became a scrappy affair, with both teams struggling to control the ball and find feet.  Rides' direct style was dealt with effectively by Wokingham's back five.

With twenty minutes remaining Wanderers grabbed what proved to be the winner.  A counter-attack saw Dave Griffiths collect the ball inside his own half and release Tom Soane.  With a defender and the Rides' goalkeeper approaching, Soane struck a shot that looped into the net.

Wokingham almost grabbed a third goal moments later, as Richard Scott turned well and his low effort was parried out for a corner.

The victory lifts Wokingham up to second, and restores belief that they can finish in the top 3 with five matches remaining.

TEAM: Nick Harding, Andy Corless, Chris Hillsdon, Clint Falcus, Jamie Ryall, Ian Griffiths, Steve Martin, Dave Griffiths, Anthony Prior, Richard Scott, Tom Soane.

SUBS: Jon Mercer (for Falcus) and Lewis Trusty (Not Used).