Kingstonian 2-1 Watford
STING IN THE TAIL FOR HORNETS

New Hornets manager Ray Lewington - father of K's midfielder Craig - brought his Watford side to Kingsmeadow to face a Kingstonian side boosted by a good start to their pre-season campaign.

The Kingstonian line-up much resembled the one that had started against Gillingham earlier in the week, with the only changes being the inclusions of Liam Collins and Greg Ball in place of Jamie Leacock and Greg Ball respectively. As for the visitors, Watford fielded a strong side, though attackers Gifton Noel-Williams and Heidar Helguson were notable absentees.

The wing-back formation was again employed by Steve Sedgley, with Liam Collins given the chance to further improve his case for a regular place in the side, this time as a right wing-back. Watford fielded a similar system, and having lost a number of defenders over the summer used the opportunity to position Marcus Gayle at the back alongside new signing Sean Dyche and captain Neil Cox.

A pacy start saw both sides attempt to hit their strikers early, and although Greg Ball and Dave Sadler were putting themselves about well for the home side, they had to wait about a quarter of an hour before their first sight on goal. Sadler connected with Liam Collins' floated ball to the far post (below) though was unable to prevent it from being anything more than a comfortable take for veteran 'keeper Alec Chamberlain.

Photo: kingstonian.net

Almost immediately in reply Watford signalled their own intentions as Paul Robinson was played in to strike a fierce effort to beat Lance Key down to his right, but not the woodwork with the ball coming off the foot of the post and away to safety. On the half hour mark Tommy Smith crossed to strike partner Dominic Foley, whose powerful header was spectacularly saved by Key, diving to his right, palming away with his left hand. Former Arsenal player Stephen Hughes was unable to capitalise on a good opening before the break, totally mis-kicking in front of goal.

Watford came out in the second half immediately exerting pressure on the K's defence, who did well to hold out, and in particular in blocking efforts from Hughes and Robinson. Greg Ball was similarly frustrated in the other end as both sides pushed forward without much reward.

In the 70th minute, Ronnie Green was clinically brought down on the edge of the Watford area by Dyche. James Pinnock's free kick was met well by fellow substitute Peter Barnsby at the near post, with the flicked header beating the helpless Chamberlain to open the scoring (below).

Photo: kingstonian.net

Barely five minutes later, Watford substitute Jason Norville found an opening and struck low to Key's right. Despite getting fingertips onto the shot, Key was unable to prevent the ball from nestling in the back of the net for the equaliser (below).

Photo: kingstonian.net

Both sides exchanged half chances as they searched for victory, and K's showed notable passing movement through midfield and on the right side. With only a few minutes left of the game, James Pinnock lofted a ball over the top for Green to latch onto. The striker raced away from the defence and slotted the ball home neatly past Chamberlain to claim victory (below).

Photo: kingstonian.net