Wilmot in match-winning form as Barton stun Hitchin

Without an away win since December 1, Barton were ahead after 27 minutes when Andrew Iwediuno netted, stunning the 277 crowd.

That goal saw Hitchin launch wave after wave of attack, but ex-Canary keeper Richard Wilmot pulled off a string of fine saves.

In the second half, Tony Fontenelle’s penalty was brilliantly saved by man of the match Wilmot, but Hitchin were level when Jamie Arlick netted.

Now on level terms, the home side expected to go on and rack up their 13th home win of the campaign, but Barton had other ideas.

The winner came with 12 minutes remaining as Bilal Hassan won the ball in midfield before beating Martin Bennett from 20 yards, blasting into the bottom corner.

Rovers were still not home and dry as Fontenelle curled an effort against the post, before Barton were down to 10 men after Andre Maltay was red carded for a strong challenge.

It didn’t prove too costly for Dan Kennoy’s side though as they held on to climb to 17th in the table and are in action again this Saturday, hosting Burnham.