Fireworks came early for our fans on Saturday as returning forward Tommy Bradford lit up Colston Avenue during the 4-4 draw 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 the game ebbed and flowed towards its high-scoring conclusion.
The point was enough to keep us in the top five of the Ryman Division One South but the 21-year old rued our failure to capitalise on a bright opening to the game.
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| Bradford added another match ball to his collection on Saturday |
“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 goal 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 then buried two more penalties as we 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 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 Ricky take it – my legs felt so heavy!”
Bradford’s hat-trick took him to 14 for the season overall, three behind Korboa and three in front of Miller, but the diminutive playmaker claimed all three aren’t focusing too much on personal glory.
“I couldn’t believe Ricky wouldn’t stop scoring when I was out injured, I was like come on,” he laughed, “but, no, we don’t put our competitiveness ahead of the team.
“None of us are greedy and are just as happy to pass or set somebody else up if they are in a better position. We all just want the team to succeed.”
Our next game is away at South Park for a second round Ryman League Cup tie on Wednesday 9thNovember (kick-off 7.45pm).