AFC Totton
STAGS AND 'STOKE SETTLE FOR A POINT-A-PIECE
AFC Totton and Basingstoke Town played out an entertaining 2-2 draw at the Snows Stadium in mixed conditions.
Marksmen Charlie Austin and Scott Rendell scored for the Stags before a quickfire double from Liam Ferdinand levelled the game inside 20 minutes.
Both sides threatened in an end-to-end second half, which culminated in an excellent save from Totton goalkeeper Joshua Gould, who denied Daniel Warre as he stared him down one-on-one.
The Stags, who were knocked out of the FA Cup last weekend, started with a point to prove. Fantastic footwork from their star signing saw Charlie AUSTIN round the goalkeeper to put the home side in front with seven minutes played.
Scott RENDELL increased his season’s tally to four goals moments later when he wrong-footed visiting goalkeeper Simon Grant with a clever header to put the home side 2-0 in front.
However, the travelling Basingstoke fans were soon uplifted as Liam FERDINAND cut in from the right to guide the ball into the far bottom corner and rejuvenate hope for the away team. And the 'Stoke No.10 levelled the scores in the 18th minute, when he rounded Gould to roll the ball home and wipe out Totton’s seemingly commanding lead, less than 10 minutes after it was established.
Basingstoke’s quick-fire comeback was the first time Totton had conceded twice in a league game this season, with ‘Stoke continuing their free-scoring form.
Austin put the ball in the visitors' net twice more before half-time, only to be thwarted by the offside flag on both occasions, his frustration visible.
The second half was similar to a game of basketball in its end-to-end nature, but both sides lacked clear goalscoring opportunities. In a flurry, Totton midfielder Josh Owers thumped the crossbar from a twenty-five-yard freekick before Tom Blair saw an effort drop agonisingly wide of the far post.
Substitute Warre‘s penetrating run broke the resolve of Totton’s central defence, but he was met by an on-rushing Gould, who produced a fine save just before full-time.
The result leaves Totton one point behind Walton & Hersham at the league’s summit, whilst Basingstoke sit just inside the play-off places.
Totton manager, Jimmy Ball said: “It was a good game between two good sides. Our attacking play was excellent but I’d like us to improve in some defensive aspects. The players are disappointed not have won but I see it as a point gained rather than two points lost.”
Full-Time: AFC TOTTON 2-2 BASINGSTOKE TOWN
Attendance: 1,378
Man of the match: Liam Ferdinand
Entertainment Value: 4/5
Author: Owen Bolger
