Report - Wealdstone 1 - 1 Dulwich Hamlet

National League newcomers Wealdstone were held to a one-all draw at The Vale this afternoon, in a competitive encounter with National League South side Dulwich Hamlet.

A first half goal from Michee Efete for the Stones was cancelled out by a second half strike from Tyrique Hyde for the Hamlet.

The first 20 minutes provided an even contest, with both sides grappling to settle into the rhythm of the match.

Wealdstone’s first goal scoring opportunity came in the 22nd minute as Danny Green chipped in a free kick towards the far post for Danny Parish, but his effort hit the outside of the post.

Five minutes later, dead-ball specialist Green swung in a corner towards Michael Phillips; however, his goal bound effort was blocked by a Dulwich defender.

In the 28th minute, Hyde fired from just inside the box for the visitors, but Harry Isted produced a fine save to deny the striker.

As the first half drew to a close, the Stones began dictate the tempo of the match and dominate possession.

They were duly rewarded for their persistence in the 35th minute, when hotshot fullback Efete pounced in the Hamlet’s box to convert past Grainger and send Wealdstone into the lead.

Dulwich’s best chance of the half came just shy of half-time as they hit the woodwork, with Isted following up with a courageous save to clear his lines.

The second half saw the Hamlet edge their way back into the tie, drawing level in the 58th minute as Tyrique Hyde danced into the box and slotted home past Isted.

Three minutes later, Dapo Oluwareju was close to a quick-fire second for the Hamlet, but captain Jerome Okimo recovered to thwart his effort.

In the 64th minute, Dennon Lewis and Efete effortlessly combined on the right-hand side, with the latter’s shot flying agonisingly wide of the target.

Late in the second half, Dulwich were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box; Michael Timlin curled a goal bound effort for the visitors, but Isted produced another instinctive save to preserve the score line.

Report by Nicole Cho-Yee

Wealdstone: Isted, Efete, Williams, Okimo (Trialist U), Wishart, Smith, Phillips, Lewis (Hughes, 78), Green, Parish (Trialist V, 59), Emmanuel (Cawley, 71).

Subs not used: Trialist T, Everett.