Wingate & Finchley secured a 2-0 victory over Needham Market at Bloomfields on Sunday, with Gianluca Botti’s two goals proving decisive in a tightly contested match. The win marked a positive step forward for Wingate & Finchley as they look to build momentum in their campaign.

The first half featured few clear scoring opportunities, although both sides created notable chances. Needham Market introduced Tyler Wright for his full debut, while Kyle Hammond posed an early threat for Wingate, challenging goalkeeper Charlie Grainger. Luke Ingram also tested the Needham defence, sending a first-time shot from outside the area that was well blocked before narrowly missing from a follow-up chance off a Hammond corner.

Botti broke the deadlock for Wingate & Finchley with a precise finish into the bottom corner, marking his third goal of the season. Needham responded with a swift counterattack, but Liam Pearce’s effort was comfortably saved by Grainger. Wingate nearly doubled their lead when Anointed Chukwu struck the post, and Hammond’s powerful 30-yard free-kick was tipped over by the Needham goalkeeper. Marcel Lewis also curled a free kick just wide of the target.

In the second half, Ashley Nzala forced a diving save from Wingate keeper James Bradbrook, denying a close-range attempt. Wingate introduced Josh Tennial off the bench, who quickly went close to adding to the scoreline. Hammond again threatened before Botti secured the victory by converting a low cross from the left wing at the far post.

Needham Market gave another senior debut to home player Harry Hopkins during the match. The visitors also saw Ashley Nzala receive a red card in the 84th minute following an incident of retaliation, reducing Needham to ten men late in the game.

The result leaves Wingate & Finchley progressing with confidence, while Needham Market will look to regroup ahead of their next fixture.