Robins and Hastings Share Points in Bonfire Night Thriller
- James Barrett
- Nov 7, 2016
- 2 min read
Carshalton Athletic fans were treated to early fireworks on Bonfire Night as forward Tommy Bradford returned with a bang against Hastings United, writes James Barrett.
Bradford, making his first full start after over a month out injured, hit an unusual hat-trick - all penalties - as an entertaining game ebbed and flowed towards an eventual 4-4 draw.
The point was enough to keep Carshalton in the top five of the Ryman Division One South but the 21-year old rued his side’s failure to capitalise on a bright opening to the game.
“We began well and scored early doors but for some reason we relaxed a bit and they picked us off with three quick goals,” said Bradford, whom won and subsequently converted a spot-kick awarded in the fifth minute.
“At half-time we spoke about keeping composed and the need to be braver because we felt we were still in the game.
“But, again, it was disappointing to get ourselves 4-3 in front only to concede again. Hastings were well-organised but three of their goals came via set-pieces and that’s something we have to improve on.” Hastings shook off that early disappointment to go into the break 3-1 up thanks to two headed goals by centre back Steve Watt and a fine curling effort from Harry Stannard.
But Mickel Miller’s eleventh of the season reduced the arrears on 51 minutes before Bradford buried two more penalties as the Robins led again before the hour.
Watt had the last laugh however as he arrowed a cross/shot in from a narrow angle on 64 minutes to complete his own treble and the afternoon’s explosive goalscoring exploits.
“I’ve scored two penalties in a match before but never three,” smiled Bradford.
“We could’ve had a fourth for handball late on (a free kick on the edge was eventually given) but I’d of let (Carshalton’s current top scorer) Ricky Korboa take it – my legs felt so heavy!
"But, after this and my cameo against Walton Casuals last week, I'm starting to feel stronger. I'm looking forward to training ahead of the two games we've got this week, which I hope to be a part of."
Carshalton Athletic next head to South Park for a second round Ryman League Cup tie on Wednesday 9th November (KO 7.45pm).
Photo Credit: Ian Gerrard