There’s No Point In Going Away

It was a travesty of justice that Slough Town filled to come away with at least a point from Park View Road on Tuesday evening. And a point is what they are still in search of after five fruitless away games so far this season.

A highly impressive performance yielded style, ability and imagination — but the Rebels were given their most cruel Conference lesson to date. A lack of finishing power from numerous chances created meant they never provided the necessary half time platform with which they could shut up shop.

The defence responded well to the sweeper system and, though Welling had their moments, Slough were well on top throughout the first period. After only 10 minutes Steve Thompson swept down the right and his cross was met by Neal Stanley only for it to be hastily cleared off the line.

The sweeper system was in full operation as both Mark Mallinson and Phil Stacey managed to move into great space on the flanks with neat passing movements worrying Welling. Sean Lahiff produced some vital punches and then pulled off a magnificent save from Robbins who stole in to shoot from point blank range.

Frank Murphy was adding depth to the front line and his movement and skill helped the Rebels as they suddenly stepped up a gear. After Hill's long ball Murphy turned and saw his fine effort pushed away by keeper Humphries ten minutes before half time.

Seconds later Thompson saw his shot saved after a fine run and a minute later his 30 yard free kick was superbly tipped over the flying keeper. It looked only a matter of time before the rampaging Rebels found the net.

Welling obviously got their act together in the dressing room as they came out far more positive and laid seige to the Slough goal. But Slough came back. Murphy rounding two players before seeing his shot pushed away by Humphries.

Darren Anderson was harshly booked and then in the 65th minute Welling sucker punched Slough with an undeserved goal. A cross was swung in from the right and as Lahiff flailed John Glover got to the ball first to finish with a powerful header.

The Rebels lost cohesion for a while but battled to get back into the game, slowly forcing the issue. As Welling tried to freeze out Slough with the offside trap, Stanley beat it but could only hammer the ball well over the bar.

Superb approach work released Murphy but his final effort was gathered by the keeper somewhat fortunately. Whilst the Rebels looked as though they would score anytime they often found themselves out of luck, particularly with the run of the ball.

Naseem Bashir replaced the over kicked Thompson with five minutes left and a minute later a superb one-two between Stacey and Murphy saw the former's shot well saved.

Anderson was pushed upfront in the Rebel's final thrust and Welling punished them in the last minute. How's weak back header sold Lahiff short, the keeper did well to block the oncoming Robbins, but the ball finally found it's way into the net from the boot of Clemmence.

A fortunate victory for Welling, but on this show, there is light at the end of the away tunnel for Slough.