Akers is Slough hero at Bromley

FULL back Vic Akers proved to be Slough Town's unlikely hero at Bromley on Saturday, when he snatched an equaliser 10 minutes from time to maintain the Rebels’ unbeaten Berger Isthmian League Premier Division record.

Just when it looked as though Slough were to taste defeat for the first time this season, Dave Russell set off on a fine run from just inside the Bromley half. Showing tremendous speed, he left the Bromley defence stranded before crossing for Akers to score from close range at the far post. Akers, who lives just a few miles from the Bromley ground, also showed tremendous pace to break from defence and run virtually the whole length of the field to receive Russell's cross and score.

Minutes after the goal both Eddie James, returning after a three match lay off due to injury, and Russell had further chances to clinch victory for Slough. But having broken clear of the Bromley defence on both occasions the chances were not taken. Had Slough grabbed the three points in a hectic last 10 minutes it would have probably have been an injustice on Bromley, who for much of the match were the dominant side.

With Eric Young still injured, Steve Norman continued in the heart of the Rebels defence. It was Bromley who looked the more lively side in the first half, pushing the ball around well despite the windy conditions, which at times affected both sides. After 20 minutes John Duffy fired just wide from 25 yards, and minutes later, after a cross from Eddy Read, Phil Basey saw another well struck shot curl just wide of the goal, with Richard Teale beaten.

Just before the interval the home side again twice came close to breaking the deadlock. First a cracking half volley from the lively and skilful Junior Crooks, following a corner on the left, produced a great save from Teale as he pushed the rising shot over for a corner. Then one minute before half time Tony White hit a volley just wide of the target. Generally Slough were disappointing in the first 45 minutes as they struggled to get a grip on the match and wasted a number of potentially good moves with poor passing.

The second half was just six minutes old when Russell broke clear of the Bromley defence, only to be fouled by Read. The Bromley full back received the yellow card for this offence.

Bromley finally broke the deadlock after 64 minutes. A neat move between Duffy and Butch Dunn finished with Dunn cracking the ball past the advancing Teale from about 10 yards.

Minutes later Basey had a fine chance to virtually clinch victory for his side. But having broken into the Slough penalty area, his final shot was well saved by Teale to prevent a certain goal.

Then just when it looked as though defeat was likely, Slough suddenly raised their game resulting in Akers’ goal and the near misses by James and Russell.

While Slough were not at their best in this match, the side showed character to fight back and snatch a point and them almost steal victory in the final 10 minutes.