Late drama as Basingstoke held by Walton in thrilling match

It was a game that needed no introduction to either set of supporters, as the two sides had gone toe-to-toe in the title race the previous season – up until the final day, when Basingstoke were crowned champions in astonishing fashion.

However, although Basingstoke won the war, Walton had been victorious in the two battles across the course of the season – winning 0-1 at Winklebury in December and 5-1 in the reverse fixture on April 1st.

The Swans were dominant for the majority of the first half and, as much as Basingstoke defended well to largely thwart the visitors’ attacks, Walton eventually took the lead five minutes before half-time – through Anis Nuur. Harry Mills received the ball deep on the left-hand side, before rolling it to Nuur on the edge of the box, who turned sharply and unleashed a rocket into the top-left corner. (0-1)

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The lead didn’t last long, as ‘Stoke managed to pull level early in stoppage time, somewhat against the run of play, when Ben Cook smashed in another incredible strike. Ashleigh Artwell slotted a pass through to Brad Wilson on the left wing, who beat two Walton defenders before firing a shot which was saved by Liam Allen. The ball dropped to Cook on the edge of the box, though, who scored his third league goal of the season. (1-1)

However, there was to be another late twist in the half, as Walton & Hersham regained their lead just minutes later. Harry Mills, who frequently found himself in midfield positions from left-back, was again the provider – this time dinking the ball to John Gilbert who scored the game’s third goal from outside the box, with a big deflection off Billy Upton taking the strike out of Paul Strudley’s reach. The Swans 1-2 up at the break.

Basingstoke came out of half-time looking revitalised, much improved from a below-par first period display. The hosts were rewarded for their efforts 20 minutes in, when Ashleigh Artwell pulled ‘Stoke level for the second time in the game. Artwell began the move with a neat turn before driving into the Walton half and offloading to Paul Hodges. Hodges found Wilson, who was again away down the left. Last season’s top scorer then slid the ball across the face of goal to Dan Isaiah Rowe, who cut it back for Artwell to finish the move. (2-2)

The home supporters thought they had taken the lead for the first time in the game, when Ashleigh Artwell looked to have scored his second. Paul Hodges’ header was saved by Liam Allen, but Artwell was persistent and forced the ball into the back of the net. The celebrations were quickly subdued, though, as referee Stuart Kyle went over to consult with his assistant, before eventually disallowing the goal for a foul on the goalkeeper.

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But, just like in the first half, there was stoppage time drama as ‘Stoke did eventually put themselves ahead, in the 96th minute of the match, through No.9 Dan Rowe. Brad Wilson swung in a corner, which was headed onto the bar by Billy Upton. It dropped quickly onto the head of summer signing Rowe, who was in the right place at the right time to score his sixth goal in Basingstoke colours. (3-2)

The lead was short-lived, however, as Stan Flaherty was brought down as he charged into the box – penalty to Walton & Hersham. Harry Mills stepped up and passed the ball into the bottom-right corner, to equalise with his fourth converted spot-kick of the season. (3-3)

A fitting ending to a truly remarkable game of football, in which Basingstoke competed excellently with the side tipped by many to win the Southern League Premier title.

Dan Brownlie’s side now face a quick turnaround, as they travel to face Winchester City on Tuesday in a 19.45 kick-off at the Charters Community Stadium.