UNITED COME FROM BEHIND THREE TIMES

ASHFORD 3 AFC CROYDON AtHletiC 3:

Ashford United came from behind three times to earn a point at Homelands on Saturday.

The result saw them lose top spot to rivals Crowborough, following the East Sussex side’s 2-0 home win over Rochester.

United included latest signings Joe Vines and Richard Avery for their home debuts but it proved a tough afternoon against opponents who have slipped out of contention themselves in recent weeks.

The visitors edged last season’s corresponding contest 4-3 and this was another game played at pace with plenty of chances. League top scorer Warren Mfula scored twice to take his total to 41 for the season, putting the visitors ahead after only 10 minutes.

Ryan Palmer was then denied by keeper Daniel Burnett, before putting United level five minutes later, following a good free-kick. The goal took him to double figures for the season.

Palmer tested Burnett twice more before Vines missed a great chance, hooking over from only two yards.

United lost injured defender Frazer Walker in first half stoppage-time, Luke Eldridge replacing him.

Goalkeeper George Kamurasi foiled Mfula early in the second half before Jack Higgins restored the visitors’ lead two minutes before the hour.

Referee Joe Stokes waved away United protests after Rory Hill looked to be brought down in the box.

The winger was booked soon after before getting United’s second four minutes later.

Palmer and Eldridge were both involved in the build-up for United’s 500th goal since being formed six seasons ago.

Kamurasi’s brave dive kept out Mfula and then Vines stopped him again with an excellent challenge.

The striker wouldn’t be denied, though, getting his second five minutes from time, scoring off the bar, as United conceded three goals for the first time this season.

The Nuts & Bolts pressed for the equaliser, Shaun Welford – with his 37th of the season – heading them level as the clock ticked towards stoppage-time,

Kamurasi Savage (Stone 86 mins), Walker (Eldridge 45 mins), Avery, Vines, Kingwell, Palmer, Davisson, Welford, Goodchild, Hill. Subs not used: Ince, Botterill, Lee-Wharton. 244

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