Kings’ frustrating run of narrow league defeats continued at table topping Hayes & Yeading as a wonder strike ultimately, proved to be the difference between the sides. That said, Kings can take great heart from this performance which saw them push their all-conquering hosts to the limit in maintaining their 100% start to the season.

Langley made much the brighter start with Leo Farruch again showing maturity beyond his years as he created early attacking momentum for Kings’ young guns. It was, in fact, a free kick won by the irrepressible teenager that almost gave ‘Kings’ a shock lead as Alfie Williams fiercely struck drive was beaten out by home custodian Ravan Constable, who then showed lightning reflexes by tipping over Saul Williams follow up. From the resultant corner Constable again excelled by brilliantly turning Arel Amu’s snap shot round the post.

Hayes too, were not without their moments and only a superb goal line clearance by Jorell Johnson denied the hosts a breakthrough as play ebbed and flowed at a relentless pace. The last action of the half was again inspired by Farruch as his piercing cross found Roddy Collins in space but he could not keep his shot down and the chance was lost.

No doubt the half time conversations focused the home side’s minds as they started the half with real attacking intent. Their endeavours reaped an almost instant reward as, after the defence repelled an initial foray, Jordan Norville-Williams unleashed a terrific thirty yard drive which beat Liam Studley’s despairing dive to explode into the bottom corner.

To their credit, Kings responded immediately, as great work by Arel Amu set Louis Yamfam free on the right and his early cross found Saul Williams in acres of space but the industrious forward’s hurried shot was just too high. Both teams continued to play free flowing football that was generating numerous opportunities at both ends as both defences struggled to contain some incisive forward play. It was ironic that the best of the chances created was to fall to Kings’ star performer Leo Farruch, as the youngster exchanged a brilliant one–two with Amu to find himself with only Constable to beat, but the Hayes ‘keeper proved just daunting enough to cause Farruch to drag his shot inches wide.

As Kings continued to strive hard for the equaliser, it is fair to say Hayes could have added to their advantage, but a harsher score line would have been a rank injustice to a Langley team in which every man stood tall. Even in defeat, this was easily the injury ravaged team’s best performance of the season and one which gives every optimism for a change in fortunes.