STOPPAGE TIME HEARTBREAK FOR BEAVERS
By Paul Edwards
Weston–Super–Mare left it late as they grabbed the three points from Hampton & Richmond Borough at Beveree stadium.
In the sixth minute of stoppage time a Dan Martin header found its way past James Holden in net to break home fans’ hearts.
The Beavers had their chances to take the lead earlier but a superb performance from ‘Gulls goalkeeper Max Harris shut out Alan Julian’s side.
Though goalless, the first half was far from lifeless. HRBFC’s Soul Kader came closest for the home side, forcing Max Harris into a sharp reflex save to keep Weston level.
A sorry sight for the Beavers was when captain Alan Massey was forced off shortly after half time. Hobbling off holding his hamstring, Beavers fans will be hoping it isn’t too serious.
Luckily, the home side reacted well, and young centre backs Harry Thomas and Charlie Sayers, who have played next to Massey in a three all season deputised in a two with aplomb.
Young midfielder Harry Gardner assumed the mantle of captain albeit temporarily, and he as well as the rest of the midfield had a commanding game.
Substitutes Alfie Tuck, on loan from QPR, Sam Deadfield who is enjoying his third spell at the club, and finally veteran midfielder Rohan Ince all made a significant impact on the game when they came on.
In the 83rd minute an acrobatic Harris save denied forward Fasanmade’s effort from range as it looked destined for the top left corner. Fans behind the goal were in disbelief as the ball was clawed wide of the post.
Harris, who did not concede a single time in the league in September, picking up the National League South player of the month award as a result, proved why he had kept nine clean sheets in thirteen appearances heading into this one.
With time ticking away and fans heading for the exit, Sam Pearson’s cross found the head of Martin six yards out. The left back buried it past Holden to the dismay of Alan Julian, his team, and the Beavers faithful.
The win means the Seagulls remain second, three points behind Hornchurch. Meanwhile, the Beavers drop to tenth after a run of five league games without a win.
They welcome Hemel Hempstead on Tuesday 21st October and will hope for another large home crowd after averaging 1092 people in their last three matches.