'There's no reason why we can't be up there at the end of the season' (From Harrow Times)

Wealdstone boss thinks title challenge could be on if they replicate Kingstonian performance

11:20am Thursday 11th October 2012 in Sport By Simon Mail

Wealdstone boss Gordon Bartlett believes his side can remain in the title hunt if they replicate the performance which dismantled Kingstonian 5-2.

The Stones temporarily went top of the Ryman Premier on Monday night after they staged a stunning comeback from 2-0 down at Grosvenor Vale.

Bartlett said: “Everybody expected us to be up there at the start of the season. We’ve been disappointing so far but that was really encouraging and set the standard of what we’re capable of achieving.

“If we can hit that level on a regular basis then there’s no reason why we can’t be up there at the end of the season. It was an excellent team performance.”

Wealdstone got off to a shaky start after they conceded twice early on through efforts from Andre McCollin and Gary McDonald.

But the Stones fought back on level terms after goals from Richard Jolly and the outstanding Alex Dyer.

Wealdstone took a lead into the break through a strike from Peter Dean.

Tom Pett flicked in the fourth goal and substitute Nathan Webb sealed a superb recovery from the hosts.

Bartlett said: “It was a very open game but we gave away two goals. To be two down in 19 minutes was not the best start against one of the top sides in the league but what a fantastic way to win a game.

“We needed a spark but we are up near the top of the league without getting into our stride.

“I suppose it has got to be one of our best league wins to turn it around. I had calls from other managers who think we’ll now be one of the favourites this year.”

The Stones boss, whose side won 1-0 at Bognor Regis Town on Saturday, continued: “It’s the best we’ve played this season and it’s encouraging that we’re near the top of the league and we haven’t really performed yet prior to the game.

“I believe this has been a slow start performance wise but the difference is we’ve been getting results this season.”

In other news, defender Alan Massey has left the club after signing for Conference Premier side Braintree Town.

Bartlett said: “I’m bitterly disappointed as a football manager because I want my team to do well. But we’ve seen a young boy turn into a man and he deserves his opportunity.

“We would welcome him back with open arms if the situation arises. But it is another example of a player from here going on to bigger and better things.”