Mant proves worth with two late saves

Goalkeeper Joe Mant is his own fiercest critic, admitting every goal he concedes hurts him.

The Ashford United teenager tweeted on the eve of this game that he was disappointed with his form so far this season, saying it was time for him “to step up”, beginning at Eden Park Avenue on Saturday.

The 19-year-old was beaten after 12 minutes but would have been happy with two impressive saves late on in an entertaining contest which earned United a point from their seventh Southern Counties East League draw of the campaign.

The game was the first meeting between the sides since the Kent Senior Trophy final ended with punches thrown but all the action this time was on the pitch. BECKENHAM ASHFORD UTD

Tom Scorer fired over early on, in an even first 10 minutes, before Jamie Turner put the hosts in front after 12 minutes.

United, though, were only behind for four minutes before Stuart Zanone grabbed a swift equaliser, converting Gary Mickelborough’s set-up, following good United build-up.

Beckenham and United possess two of the best playing surfaces in the SCEL and both teams made the most of it on Saturday with plenty of good football. Scorer was prominent in much of the visitors’ moves, while Mant did well again to keep out an effort from Eddie Walker

The keeper denied Jamie Humphries in the second half, as United sent on youngster Harry Priddle and Lloyd Blackman to replace Mickelborough and Zanone.

Beckenham went close to getting a second 12 minutes from time but Mant’s double save made sure the spoils were shared.

United’s under-18s are at home to Maidstone United in the Ryman Youth League, East Division, tonight (Thursday, 7.45pm)