United conquer another ‘giant’ in FA Trophy charge

HAYES & Yeading United made it 11 wins on the bounce – five against opposition from a higher division – as they ran out 2-0 winners at Banbury United in the FA Trophy second qualifying round.

After a shaky opening 20 minutes as the visitors struggled to cope with the pace and physicality of their hosts, United showed why they have consistently beaten higher level opposition this season.

It could have been very different however as, in just the fifth minute of the game, Jack Smith pulled off probably his best save of the season to keep the scoresheet blank.

Paul Hughes’ side settled down, though, Lee Barney notching his 19th of the campaign in all competitions and, straight fom the break, United doubled their lead when Roddy Collins stooped to power home a header from a freekick.

“There were a lot of things out there that we didn’t like,” said Hughes. “Although we were ahead, we had some heated words at halftime which, pleasingly, had the desired effect.”

Hayes & Yeading will play at home to Brightlingsea Regent in the third qualifying round.

Meanwhile, Wealdstone, resplendent in the kit the team wore in 1919 as a tribute to those who died in the First World War, drew 3-3 in a thrilling National League South encounter.

Trailing at half-time to the first two goals of Ross Stearn’s hat-trick, an Anthony Straker own goal brought Stones back into the match against Bath City.

Then sub Elliott Charles flicked on a high ball in the 85th minute and it hit Robbie Cundy’s arm, Charles slamming in the penalty for 2-2.

Although Stearn put Bath back in front, Charles sparked jubilation in a thrilling finale with a swivel and shot, the ball finding the net off a post.