Kings’ winless run on the road continued on Walton’s pristine 3G surface and although two late goals slightly flattered the hosts, Kings can have few complaints about the outcome. In a game of few chances, the home side were clinical in their finishing while Kings were decidedly profligate with their opportunities.

That trend was conspicuously apparent with the first goal when home custodian Jake Adam’s misplaced clearance found Jamie Jellis in space but, from long range the industrious midfielder could not quite generate the velocity needed to breach the unguarded net. Adams, however, was quick to atone as his accurate clearance was quickly switched to John Gilbert who rapidly advanced on goal before unleashing a ferocious twenty five yarder past Alfie Marriott.

Langley then had a fleeting opportunity to restore parity when Jack Wood combined well with Harry Crawford only for the youngster to fire just over. Yet again, a missed opportunity was the springboard for a Walton success when the resultant goal kick again found Gilbert. His deft through ball put Odunaike clear and the lively front man efficiently steered the ball past the advancing Marriott to double Casuals’ advantage and they maintained that buffer until the break with their regular pressing game denying Kings any attacking momentum.

In the second period Kings boosted their strike force early on with the introduction of Arel Amu and Edu. Almost immediately the attacking potency was increased, but Casuals rearguard remained resilient, being quick to cover the threat of danger.

Kings battled on gamely but were dealt another blow when captain Harry Crawford was dismissed, apparently for remarks directed at the assistant referee and the home side took full advantage to add two late goals from substitute Ansu Jenneh. That brace completed what was, ultimately, a comfortable victory and left Kings with only a new year resolution to break their away day hoodoo.