A large travelling contingent turned up at Fetcham Grove in an expectant mood but went home with only a point after a robust performance from Leatherhead.
Leatherhead gave a debut appearance to Phil Page. A powerful looking striker that certainly put himself about a bit and was booked for repeatedly doing so by a ref who spent more time doing up his shoe laces than officiating the game.
Our opener came from Vas. A long ball down the middle should have been dealt with but the defender hesitated to raise a boot and allowed Vas to head it on and run clear on goal. A composed finish beat the ‘keeper who is not relishing the thought of long distance travel next season.
Maidstone’s equaliser came about from a spell of poor refereeing. No question about the powerful headed finish from the corner, but that corner came from a spell where the ref failed to remember Dembele had been waved off the field of play after receiving treatment after being fouled. Despite screams from the physio the ref allowed play to go on with Dembele on the side lines and allow Maidstone to build an attack down their left. While our right-back was allowed on it was not in time to prevent the cross from which we conceded the corner.
The halftime discussion was mainly over why Leatherhead did not build an extra tea bar for the visiting supporters. Surely we should have known so many would come, the attendance at Harrow was a massive 372 after all…
Second half and the ref managed to get a grip of his laces but not the game. He certainly failed to control the Maidstone players as they tried to haul Vas off the floor, and sneak in a crafty kick, as he was booked for diving. A tad harsh. While there was no trip, Vas was undoubtedly pulled back in the box to deny him a shooting opportunity.
The remainder of the half was a lively yet even affair. Maidstone are undoubtedly worthy champions elect but Leatherhead should take heart from a well-earned point. No need to shrug this one off…