AFC within a point of the title after hammering Tring

AFC Dunstable moved to within a point of the SSML Premier Division title with this thumping win at Tring Athletic on Saturday.

Although promotion has already been secured, the visitors knew it was going to be a tough encounter against a Tring side who have taken 18 points from top six teams in the league this season.

The OD’s got off to the perfect start when they were awarded a penalty after four minutes as Nathan Frater was dragged back in the area and Leon Cashman converted.

AFC continued to look for a second and it came when a BJ Christie flick-on found Frater, who ran through to make it 2-0 in the 26th minute.

Keeper Ricky Perks made a good save with his legs to deny Tring a way back and 10 minutes before the break, AFC moved further in front when Christie’s header slipped through the hands of Tring stopper Jack Hopwood.

Newman Carney was replaced by Danny Jones for the second period, as AFC stretched their lead thanks to Jermaine Hall firing home from close range.

The visitors made it 5-0 in stoppage time when Christie notched his 49th goal of the season and his side’s 116th in the league.

AFC boss Steve Heath said: “It was without doubt another potentially tough game as Tring had only lost four games at home this season and have beaten five teams who have occupied top six places.

“Coupled with just reaching a cup final on Tuesday night, their confidence must have been high. Even though our usual high intensity was not so evident, the lads had the game under control and were so clinical when the chances came.

“It was a shame we did not tie up the title today, but it just goes to show what an extremely tough league this is to win.”

AFC now need any kind of results at second bottom Colney Heath next weekend, although could be crowned champions before then, should London Colney drop any points in their two midweek games.

AFC: Perks, Massay, N Carney, Griffiths, Cashman, Olaleye, Gorman, Humbert, Christie, Hall, Frater. Subs used: Jones, Byron, Darby. Subs not used: Morgan, Langston.