Christie scores late on to seal AFC victory

A late goal by BJ Christie ensured AFC Dunstable kept up their challenge for a play-off place with a 1-0 win over Hanwell Town on Saturday.

By contrast, this game was the complete opposite from the away game in west London back in December, where the second half exploded with goals as AFC ran out 4-2 winners.

One change was made from the victory at Fleet Town, as Bill Morgan was rested due to a slight illness, so Leon Cashman slotted into central defence and Josh Humbert earned a recall.

A swirling made it difficult for both sides as Hanwell created the first real chance on 12 minutes, a flying header just missing the target.

AFC responded with two good opportunities for Jermaine Hall and BJ Christie as Hall’s effort was tipped over, while Christie dragged his shot wide from 15 yards.

Just before the break, Hanwell had a great chance to take the lead but Bill Healey’s attempt struck the bar.

With the wind still having a major effect on the game, both sides gave everything in the second period, only to find chances were few and far between.

With 15 minutes remaining, a sickening clash between AFC keeper Garry Malone and Hanwell’s Healey saw the striker come off worse as the game was held up for six minutes as he received attention.

With just two minutes to go, Courtney Massay sent a free kick into the visitors box, a sliced clearance cannoned off upright and the ball fell kindly to Christie, who made no mistake it.

There was no more time for Hanwell to respond and three wins on the bounce in the league for AFC saw them move up a place to fourth.

Boss Steve Heath said: “It was so pleasing to see a game played to the extreme by both sides that did not give an inch.

“It shows games can be played like this and if officiated properly, no cautions were handed out.”

AFC are at home to Arlesey Town this weekend.

AFC: Malone, Massay, Murphy, Griffiths, Cashman, N Carney, Humbert, Olaleye, Christie, Bishop (B Carney 76), Hall (Mannion 76).

Subs not used: Byron, Morgan, Hankins.

Attendance 62.