K’s prove a point
Two of the top three teams in the league played each other to a stalemate as Kingstonian left darkest (as the floodlights flickered) Essex after sharing the points with AFC Hornchurch.
Over the course of 90 minutes neither side did enough to win, but both sides were stout enough defensively to merit a point.
Despite having a decent share of possession, and plenty in the Hornchurch half, the Ks were unable to carve out any real opportunities as it was often their penultimate ball that was lacking. Indeed, it was The Urchins who had the best chances of the game. Two of their best moments fell to centre back Rickie Hayles but his early volley from a corner was too high before he headed a golden opportunity straight at Rob Tolfrey from a set piece. But the game's moment of real quality came courtesy of George Purcell. The striker teed himself up for a looping volley that beat Tolfrey only to clip the top of the crossbar.
For Ks they only truly threatened from distance. Sam Page's volley crawled just wide in the first half but it was only in the second half that Alan Dowson's side threatened Inigo Echepare in the host's goal as the keeper palmed away Andre McCollin's drive. But despite being sent to the crowd late in the game for dissent, Dowson will have many positives to take away. Charles Offusu-Hene put in his best performance of the season, Tommy Kavanagh continued his fine while Matt Drage and Sam Page continued their imperious partnership at the back. It wasn't the most thrilling afternoon, but Kingstonian were well worth a very impressive point.
Report: Jamie Cutteridge
