James Clayden scored for Barnston against Maldon St Mary's

BOSS Leighton Williams praised his team’s work ethic after taking a point off the league leaders.

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Final Score: Barnston AFC 1 : 1 Maldon St Mary’s

BOSS Leighton Williams praised his team’s work ethic after taking a point off the league leaders.

Barnston headed into the game in a bad run of form that had seen them fall into the bottom half of the table and had even seen Williams hand in his resignation – which was rejected by chairman Bob Tyler - as well as the departure of four players.

Maldon, on the other hand, had opened up a five point gap at the top of the table.

Both teams got off to a lively start after a three-week break but it was Barnston who were looking the more likely to open the scoring.

On 16 minutes the goal came. A long clearance from Kyle was flicked on by Mark Pledger to James Clayden who curled the ball into the top corner. The goal galvanized Maldon and twice Houghton was called upon to keep the score at one-nil.

Maldon’s persistence paid off as a swift counter attacking move leveled the game. A cross-cum-shot from Barnston’s Kevin Spencer hit the bar and allowed Maldon to break quickly through John Saunders who delivered a perfect cross for Mark Benterman to head the ball into the net.

With all the momentum the visitors pressed for a second but only the bar denied them as the teams went into the break on level terms.

The second half picked up where the first had left off. Maldon dominated possession and territory but Barnston’s resilience in defence and a number of good saves from Houghton stopped them from taking the lead.

As the final whistle approach Barnston almost stole all the points but David Smith was denied by a fingertip save.

After the game Williams said: “This was a spirited performance from Barnston, one that every player can be proud of.

“A performance like this, with the attitude that accompanied it showed that this squad has come together and more performances like this will see an enjoyable second half to the season us.”