Beckenham 1 v 2 Faversham Town

Kent League Premier Division

For more pictures, click on Non League Pictures

BECKENHAM literally threw away the chance to go three points clear at the top of the Kent League Premier Divison after gifting new boys Faversham both goals in this top-of-the table-clash, writes Ian Muir.

Beckenham should have taken an early lead in the third minute when Ashley Carew's snap shot flashed past the post.

Town continued to force the visitors on to the back foot and it was Carew again who latched onto a crisp through ball from Michael Smith and his attempt went inches wide.

A minute later a fierce volley by Ross Cable shaved the post followed by yet another chance.

The visitors were not gaining any advantage as Town continued to play some attractive football.

The pressure paid off in the 23rd minute when Smith picked up a lose ball and guided it into the path of the advancing Carew who slotted home.

Beckenham were still congratulating themselves when the visitors hit back 30 seconds later with their first attack of note through Jason Mills.

Cable, who was beginning to shake his markers, forced the Faversham keeper into two successive saves 10 minutes later.

Joe McDonnell unleashed a powerful 20-yard volley which was tipped round the post by the impressive visiting keeper.

On the stroke of half time Cable picked up a stray pass on the edge of the area and forged his way into the crowded penalty area.

His delicate ball skill afforded him space to curl a shot which nearly found the top corner.

Beckenham had the ball in the back of the net after only two minutes of the second period but Ted Hart was then judged to be offside.

As with the first half Town were looking comfortable and having the better of the possession but not quite finding a final ball.

Disaster struck in the 80th minute as long ball caught the defence napping and Jason Rose allowed the ball to bounce over his head only for Kris Parker to nip in to head home against the run of play.

With the clock ticking Town made two substitutions and as they fought back in an attempt to level the score again the visitor's keeper saved a point blank shot from Carew.

A series of corners ensured it was going to be a nail-biting finish.

With a minute to go Cable made a 20-yard run and found himself bearing down on goal.

He unleashed a powerful shot which was punched away by the keeper.

As the referee blew for full time Beckenham were left to reflect on a game in which they never really looked like losing.

The home side was undoubtedly the more impressive of the two but domination has to be translated into goals.

MATCH FACTS: BECKENHAM TOWN: Lewington, Hart, Sinclair, Rose, Hughes, Dussard, Smith, Gallagher, McDonnell, Carew, Cable.

SUBS: Curran, Hughes, Hawkes, Carter.