STONES READY FOR EASTLEIGH TEST AFTER GRITTY WEEK

Wealdstone boss Sam Cox has praised his side’s resilience and growth after a testing run of fixtures, as attention now turns to Saturday’s home clash with Eastleigh.

Reflecting on last weekend’s defeat to Morecambe, Sam admitted the opposition were the best footballing side his team has faced this season.

“On paper, their league position looks false. They’ve got quality, they’ve invested heavily and they’ve gelled quickly. Against us, I thought it was probably their best performance so far.”

Despite battling back from three goals down to level at 3–3, late naivety cost Wealdstone the chance of a point. Sam was quick to emphasise the lessons learned:

“We weren’t at the level we expect of ourselves. Even a draw would have flattered us, but the boys responded brilliantly in midweek.”

That reaction came against high flying Tamworth, a side known for their direct and relentless style. The Stones stood firm, earning a hard-fought point.

“People doubted whether we could cope with that kind of game, but defensively we were excellent. Moussa (Diarra), Woody (Deon Woodman), Philip Chinedu - they were colossal. Junior Tiensia was fantastic on his return and Dylan Kadji did brilliantly off the bench. From 1 to 11, the boys gave everything.”

Sam highlighted the squad’s character, even after conceding with ten men:

“We could have nicked it at the end through Sean Adarkwa. It was a really good point.”

With 11 games played and 14 points on the board, Sam believes the Stones are ahead of schedule given the youth and inexperience of the squad.

“This is a new group. Some are on their first loans, their first exposure to National League football. They’re learning every week. We feel we could have more points and that shows how far we’ve come. The camaraderie is growing and you can see that in our comebacks late in games.”

Next up is Eastleigh, rejuvenated by new manager Scott Bartlett and buoyed by a midweek win. Sam is under no illusions about the challenge.

“They’ll bring energy and quality. We know it’s going to be tough, but we’ve prepared tactically and the boys are chomping at the bit. We may need to rotate with the load from recent games, but the squad is ready.”

There was positive news with the signing of striker Olufela Olomola, who returns to Grosvenor Vale with both experience and quality.

“Fela’s fantastic for the group and the club. He brings know-how from the Football League and he’ll make our young forwards better with his guidance. He’s already fitting in like a glove.”

Injury setbacks remain, with young Alfie Massey ruled out after picking up an injury midweek. However, Nathan Young-Coombes returned to training and Connor McAvoy featured on the bench against Tamworth. Skipper Jack Cook continues to be managed carefully as he recovers from a niggle.

“It’s tough to lose Alfie because he’s been brilliant for us, but we’ll support him in his rehab. Others are coming back and with the support of our medical staff, we’re making sure the squad is robust enough to handle the demands.”

With momentum from a gritty week, Sam is optimistic about the Stones’ trajectory.

“Every day, every game, this team is improving. There will be mistakes - that’s natural at this level - but the potential is huge. We’re moving in the right direction.”

📅 Wealdstone vs Eastleigh

📍 Grosvenor Vale

🕒 Saturday, 3pm

The cheapest tickets are available online in advance. BUY HERE.