EARLY BIRDS CATCH THE POINTS

Kings’ home pitch was finally passed fit for the visit of high flying Royston after two successive postponements. This match was scheduled for an early kick off but the Crows, featuring three former Langley players in their squad in Matt Bateman, Ed Asafu-Adjaye and Claudio Ofusu showed no sign of a Christmas hangover as they were quickly into their stride. Only quick action from Kings custodian Melvin Minter in being first to a penetrating through ball prevented a first minute opener for the visitors. That chance was quickly followed by a dangerous Spyros Mentis cross which caused havoc in the home defence and only a last ditch intervention by Jorell Johnson thwarted the visitors. However, the reprieves were short lived as another piercing delivery from the ‘Preying’ Mentis produced a well-directed header from Adam Watkins, which
Minter’s valiant attempts could not keep out. Despite the setback, Kings responded well and Royston keeper, Joe Welch, had to be at his best to tip a searing Steve Ward drive over the bar. The match continued to ebb and flow but opportunities were at a premium as both defences tended to dominate in the heavy conditions. The visitors, though, could count themselves unlucky not to add to their lead when a fierce Josh Castiglione drive beat Minter only for the assistant’s flag to rule it out for offside. That was the last of the significant action in a half which saw the visitors well worthy of their advantage.

Kings started the second period with a determined resolve to restore parity, with captain Roddy Collins to the fore in urging them forward but the Royston rear guard was proving very resilient to Kings’ attacking endeavours. A perceptive Jordan Parkes through ball did allow Mitchell Weiss a half chance but the striker’s low drive was beaten away by the alert Welch and Weiss was again denied when a great block by
Asafu-Adjaye thwarted a goal bound shot. Despite Kings dominating possession in this period, Royston always looked dangerous on the break and substitute Ofusu should have sealed victory when put clear but Minter pulled off a great save to keep his side in the game. In fact, Kings’ best opportunity did come, late on, after a pinpoint cross from Parkes found the head of the inrushing Casey Linsell but the young forward’s effort was just over the bar. Kings had a late let off when a fierce cross deflected onto the post but it did not herald any late drama and the visiting Crows were able to see out time for victory.