Bailey bags debut goal as Dunstable win at Arlesey

Dunstable Town completed a league double over Arlesey Town with a 2-0 win at the weekend.

The visitors had Scott Davies in the side for the last time as he is considering three offers from teams higher up the footballing pyramid, while skipper Ben Herd was suspended and Danny May was out with illness.

However, into the side came Gary Jones, signed from Burnham, with fellow additions, ex-St Albans City striker Elliot Bailey on the bench, plus there were starts for player coach Tony Fontanelle and Jemale McKenzie-Lowe.

Two former Dunstable Town players, Warren Plowright and Stefan Bailey, lined up in the home side, as Hallelujah Basmel went close early on, hitting the top of the bar.

Sam Willett then set up George Ironton for an effort that was comfortable for Luke Chambers, while Dunstable’s midfield of Steven Gregory, Adam Watkins, Jones and Charlie Henry all impressed and Chris Marsh saw his shot tipped behind by Nick Thompson.

Watkins’ fine header was saved, while recent acquisition Dave Moli again impressed with his movement and hold up play, with Davies sending a free kick well wide.

Louis Lee replaced Forsythe after 35 minutes for Arlesey, but it was Dunstable who came closest as Marsh’s long shot rattled against the bar.

In the second period, the visitors brought on Bailey for Moli and he immediately went upfront as Watkins had another effort that was well saved by Thompson.

On 71 minutes the deadlock was broken when Watkins curled in a cross and debutant Bailey finished well, flicking the ball into the bottom left corner.

The lead was doubled seven minutes later as Bailey picked out McKenzie-Lowe whose deft touch went in at the near post.

Basmel threatened a late consolation for Arlesey but his header cannoned against the woodwork as Dunstable came away with all three points.

This weekend, Dunstable travel to Chippenham Town.

Arlesey: Nick Thompson, Brett Longdon, Dave Corran, Warren Plowright, James Sage, Sam Willett (Stefan Bailey), Martel Powell, Luke Gregson, Kim Forsythe (Louis Lee), Hallelujah Basmel, George Ironton (Liam McGovern).

Subs not used: Christian Tavernier, Dean Gilbert.

Dunstable: Luke Chambers, Tony Fontanelle, Gary Jones, Steven Gregory, Shane Blackett, Adam Watkins, Scott Davies, Charlie Henry, Jemale McKenzie-Lowe, Dave Moli (Elliot Bailey), Christopher Marsh (Kai Gardner).

Sub not used: Nathan Abbey.

Attendance: 134.