Hartley Wintney battle back to earn draw against Kingstonian

Isthmian League Central South Division

Saturday, January 10

Hartley Wintney recovered from being two goals down during the first half to earn a valuable point against Kingstonian.

The match was played at Grand Drive, the home of Raynes Park Vale, with whom Kingstonian groundshare.

The home side had the better of the first half, and after six minutes, Dennis Kelmendi fired the K’s into an early lead (1-0).

Action from Kingstonian v Hartley Wintney. (Image: Josie Shipman)

The same player was on hand to increase the Kingstonian lead on 24 minutes (2-0).

The Row responded well, and George Wallace pulled a goal back seven minutes before half-time with a good shot from the edge of the penalty area.

Half Time: Kingstonian 2 Hartley Wintney 1

Hartley pressed hard in the second period to get on terms and got their reward on 77 minutes.

The referee looking at the goal post displaced after a Kingstonian defender crashed into it. (Image: Josie Shipman)

Jack Penton was hauled down in the penalty box, and Conor Lynch converted from the resulting spot kick (2-2).

Full time: Kingstonian 2 Hartley Wintney 2

The point ensures Hartley Wintney remain in sixth place, just one point outside the play-off zone.

During the last week, the club are pleased that two former players from last season have returned to the club. Prolific goalscorer Conor Lynch and talented wing-back Ellis Orsborne.

Added to Kyen Nicholas, who recently returned from a long-term injury, the Row look in good shape to put a stake in for one of the play-off places.

Next Saturday the Row are on the road to Fareham. Kick off 3pm.

Report by David Graham