JOSH Osude's brace against his former club sealed Witham Town's 2-0 win over Grays Athletic in their final home game of the season at the Simarco Stadium, writes JIM PURTILL.
The first half had an end of season feel to it and the sides looked like cancelling each other out but Witham gradually established midfield control.

In the first attacking move of any significance, Witham’s Deese Kasinga-Madia's fierce shot went over the bar in the 29th minute.

Another Kasinga-Madia shot from distance stung the hands of Grays goalkeeper Anthony Page, seven minutes later.
In a rare Grays riposte, a good run by former Witham player Albert Perry threatened but Harry Fairs saved well.

Witham took the lead on the stroke of half-time when Osude scored from the penalty spot after Kasinga-Madia had been felled in the area.
The second period was more entertaining but Witham dominated proceedings.
The midfield driving force of Freddie King and Archie McFadden placed the visitors firmly on the back foot.

Witham's attacks were well supported by the energy of Luke Ige and Anton Matthews, who has proved a revelation in his first season for the club.

Khris Oti nearly scored just after the break for Witham, after McFadden's excellent run and cross.

Oti's 60th-minute cross found Osude who hit the bar and Page ran out of his area to thwart Osude shortly afterwards.

Fairs denied Elliott Sartorius in the 67th minute, the best Grays could muster in the second half up to that point. Witham's win was assured when Osude scored again in the 70th minute.

Grays pressed late on and Fairs did well to save a fiercely-struck free kick from Lewis Duberry and also blocked a shot from the subsequent corner.
In contrast it was an enjoyable afternoon for Witham, whose manager Garry Kimble is staying at the club, next season.

The average age of their starting XI on Saturday was 22.

If the club retains the core of the squad next season, there is every reason to believe that they will continue to build on the foundations that they have established in this campaign.

Witham Town Football Club

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