Great Wakering Rovers 2-1 Thamesmead

(Gordon ‘86(p), Barlow ‘90: Stone ’49)

From Burroughs Park

Ryman North

A MANAGERIAL master-stroke from Gary Ansell helped Great Wakering come from behind to secure a dramatic late win against Thamesmead Town.

The Wakering boss introduced Leon Gordon and Charlie Barlow in the second-half, with his side trailing and staring defeat in the face.

But Leon Gordon levelled from the penalty spot six minutes after coming off the substitutes bench, before fellow-replacement Charlie Barlow scored in injury-time to ensure the points.

Wakering had shown glimpses of returning to form in the past week, with a win at Brentwood Town and a last-minute defeat at Aveley, and they were looking for some home comforts.

The game started slowly although both goalkeepers were called into action on several occasions to keep the clash goalless.

The first goal came shortly after half-time and it went to the visitors. Adrian Stone followed up on a shot which had cannoned off the post and he slotted home the loose ball.

Rovers had a golden chance to get back into the match when they were awarded a penalty midway through the half but Eljay Worrell, usually so reliable from the spot, was kept out impressively by Andy Walker.

But, although he got a hand on it, Walker was unable to keep out Gordon’s kick four minutes from time.

And Walker’s afternoon was to take a turn for the worst when he dislocated his knee trying to make a save and Barlow finished from close range.

Great Wakering Rovers: Huntley, Banton, Spillane, Hilder (Barlow), Easterford, Skelton, Gardner (Jacobs), Toussaint, Asante, Johnson (Gordon), Worrell