Beckenham Town

Having negotiated 2 away games since the hard fought point against Phoenix Sports at the Culverden, The Wells had faced back to back away fixtures firstly at the lush meadow that is Gay Dawn Farm, home of Corinthian ( Wells lost 1-2) and then the short trip to the league’s new minnows Lingfield. (Wells won 2-1)

The cliché of "There's no easy games" was being uttered by more than one on the South Stand at the prospect of the visit of last season’s KST and SCE league cup winners Beckenham Town. The game was also notable in the fact it was the 411th appearance by club captain and stalwart Jason Bourne and his first time back at the Culverden since breaking the record for appearances for the Wells (Previous incumbent Tony Atkins had amassed 410 Wells appearances).

With new signing Curtis George making his home debut and Danny Powell positioned opposite on the right flank the injection of pace that the Wells seemed to have been lacking in previous games was there for all to see.The game began with the opening exchanges going in favour of
the home side. Powell having considerable success against the rotund Beckenham left back. Whilst George was having similar success on the left as both wingers crossed dangerous looking balls into the Beckenham penalty area.

The South Stand faithful were rewarded for their raucous noise when in the 21st minute the wizard Jake Beecroft re-created his wonder strike against Whyteleafe last season and curled in a Beckhamesque shot from outside the area and past flailing ex-Wells keeper Dean Nash in the Beckenham goal that sent the home fans delirious.

As the first half progressed Becks began to rally and looked increasingly threatening, attacking with pace down both wings. It was through one of these flurries that they managed to get back on level terms as the ball broke through and was squeezed under the advancing Steve Lawrence, slowly trickling into The Wells net. It was later confirmed there was more than a hint of offside about the effort but in all honestly they probably
deserved it. More misery was put upon the Wells when whilst dealing with a speculative cross into the box Steve Lawrence twisted his ankle as he landed and was unable to continue. With no substitute keeper named in the squad the gloves were passed to Tom "Franco" Davey who up until Steve's forced exit had been having a terrific game in midfield. Nick Barnes entered the fray replacing Steve and taking over from Tom in midfield and set up an interesting 2nd half nicely.

As always it was great to share a half time beverage with an old face, Jonny Pilbeam, who is now establishing himself at Folkestone Invicta.
With refreshments refilled the 2nd half began with Beckenham on the front foot and making the Wells defence and midfield work hard. But with no clear cut chances for either side and Perry and Nick Davis clearing up any potential danger Franco grew in confidence in goal with some expert handling and distribution.The points looked like they would be shared. That was however until in the 91st minute a Davey through ball landed at the
feet of goal scorer extraordinaire Brendon Cass who coolly finished and sent the home fans into delirium and gave the Wells a deserved 3pts.

As the full time whistle blew the Culverden faithful were left cheering a deserved win and an excellent team performance. Wells go up to 4th in the SCEFL table and host Erith Town visit on Saturday 3pm Kick Off.

Goal Scorers: Beecroft 21mins Cass 91mins
Att 323

Man of the Match: Tom Davey

Match report: Graeme Fussell