WILKINSON STARTS WITH A DRAW

THE WHITE Tigers brought home a good point from our trip to play-off chasing Dartford in Paul Wilkinson’s first game at the helm.
With the points vital for both sides for different reasons, there was a cagey opening to this game.
Our first opportunity saw Lewington fire wide from a good position as we started to get into our stride.
New loan arrival, Andre Jr was called into action in the 12th minute as he saved well to thwart the home side, whilst at the other end, Harvey was denied by the home ‘keeper.
There were chances at either end as a header from Lewington went close. Then a neat move involving Harvey and Rooney saw the latter go close as Vose in the home goal saved well.
As we stepped up the pressure, Herve went close but it wasn’t long until the breakthrough finally came when Grimes turned the ball home with 33 minutes on the clock.
It was a goal that was celebrated vigorously by players, staff and supporters alike as we went into the second period in front.
We knew that our hosts would come at us straight from the restart and we were prepared for it to keep them at bay by working hard for each other.
It meant that chances were few and far between at either end until an equaliser on the hour-mark when Bradbrook was able to fire beyond Andre Jr.
We refused to let our heads drop and in the wake of the equaliser, Lewington went close.
The home side started to up the tempo as the clock ticked down. They were seeing plenty of the ball and asking an increasing number of questions but we were able to frustrate them.
There was a sigh of relief on 77 minutes when the home side had the ball in the net only for an offside flag to rule it out.
Andre Jr showed why he is so highly thought of with a couple of athletic saves.
After Jamie Richards was booked for a robust challenge, Warwick was introduced for his debut and he was straight into the action as he managed to get in behind the home defence, beat the advancing Vose but hit the woodwork with his effort.
As we ended the game strongly, Harvey was denied by the home ‘keeper as it finished with honours even.

WHITE TIGERS: Andre Jr, Riley-Lowe, Grimes, J. Richards, Banton (Regis 44), Harvey, Herve, D. Rooney (Rowthorn 73), Palfrey, Lewington, Copp (Warwick 79). Subs not used: Rivers, Keats.
GOAL(S): Grimes
BOOKING(S): J. Richards

PHOTO: Josh Miller.