DAN BAYLISS is in top form ahead of Slough Town’s Emirates FA Cup tie at National League club Woking tomorrow (Saturday), when a place in the first round proper is at stake.
The Rebels skipper scored twice in the 3-1 win over Tonbridge Angels last Saturday and will be looking to lead his side to more glory in the fourth qualifying round tie.

Slough, who have reached round two on eight occasions, made it to the first round last year, holding League Two club Grimsby Town to a 1-1 draw at Arbour Park before losing the replay at Blundell Park 7-2.

Woking currently sit 15th in the National League while Scott Davies’ men are fourth in National League South at the 10-match mark following their excellent win over Tonbridge.

An Arbour Park crowd of more than 1,200, including local boxing star boxer Adam Azim, saw the two sides spar and jostle for position for most of the first half.

The hosts landed the first blow in stoppage time, Dan Bayliss flicking John Gilbert’s cross into the back of the net.

Liam Vincent levelled the scores with 20 minutes remaining, converting a free-kick after player-manager Davies had committed a foul on the edge of the penalty box.

However, within two minutes the hosts restored their lead as Bayliss grabbed his brace with a volley at the back post from Gilbert’s free-kick.

Tonbridge were reduced to 10 men in stoppage time as Crossley Lema was shown a straight red card for a stamp on Gilbert.

Soon after, substitute Sam Evans killed the game off by finishing a smart counter-attack to ensure the three points for the Rebels.

*Slough Town legend Matt Lench has departed the club after seven years.

Making nearly 250 appearances for the Rebels since arriving in 2017, the fan favourite was a key member of the squad which won promotion to National League South in 2018.

Speaking to Sloughtown.net, Davies commented: “This was a really difficult decision to say the least. It goes without saying that ‘Lenchy’ has been a fans’ favourite for many years now, so this will come as surprise to many.

“Lenchy made it clear to us that he wanted to stay and fight for his place when returning from injury, but we made the call to head in a different direction.

“It’s not a decision that’s made because of our good start to the season, but more to do with how well the players in midfield have been performing of late who we believe will only improve with more games under their belt.

“There’s no doubt that this has been the most difficult conversation yet, which came with a lot of thought and emotion attached.

“We thank Lenchy for his efforts in a Slough shirt, with some fantastic memories that have put smiles on many a face. He will go down as a club legend, along with Heather and Mick (mum and dad) who have been avid supporters over the years.

“From us all and the Rebel Army, we wish you well.”

Lench himself penned an emotional message to supporters on the club website, admitting that he ‘was not expecting’ or ‘wanting’ to leave the club.

He went on to thank supporters and Davies, ‘maintaining a lot of respect and admiration’ for the teammate-turned-boss.

“I have no idea what the next chapter will be for me - I have spent seven years winding up the opposition which may rule a few clubs out,” he concluded. “Whatever it is I will do my best to make it another memorable chapter and whether it be against or who knows for Slough, I hope to play at the Wembley of Berkshire again soon!”