"THIS GROUP IS SO SPIRITED, SO TOGETHER."

Wealdstone battled to a hard-fought 1–1 draw away at Hartlepool United on Saturday, with manager Sam Cox proud of a performance he described as “as pleasing as any this season.”Despite injuries, suspensions, international call ups and knocks throughout the squad, the Stones produced a resilient display, particularly in a second half where several players were forced off, to secure what Cox called “certainly a point gained.”

The game opened at breakneck speed, with Hartlepool taking the lead inside two minutes from former Wealdstone loanee Alex Reid, after a ball in behind caught the Stones off-guard. But Stones responded immediately through Nathan Tshikuna, who delivered a moment of brilliance to level the match.

“Two minutes later, Nathan does some magic down the outside and sticks it in the top bin,” Sam said.“I’m really proud of him. He showed real quality today, both with the ball and out of possession.”

Tshikuna's thumping finish, after being out of the side for recent matches, earned praise for both his technique and attitude.

With several players managing fitness issues and recent suspensions, squad rotation was vital.Young midfielder Steven Turner again impressed in the first half before being replaced early in the second, something Cox clarified was tactical rather than fitness related.

“This is his first loan in senior football and he’s developing really well,” said Cox.“We always give the boys what we feel the game needs.”

Among the substitutes, Dylan Kadji was once again influential. Cox highlighted his recent performances - including an assist against Braintree - as part of a strong run of form.

“He shows real grittiness,” Cox said. “He was a massive plus today, along with the other lads who came on.”

Further contributions from Daniel Nkrumah, Junior Tiensia, Eddy Nsasi and Moussa Diarra helped maintain Wealdstone’s structure late in the match.

“Sometimes making that many changes can unsettle a side,” Cox noted.“But they added grit and resolve to get us over the line.”

Even without scoring, striker Micah Obiero once again earned special praise for his work rate and influence.

“For me, he’s been one of the best strikers in the division,” said Cox.“He’s run himself into the ground for the team.”

With Daniel Nkrumah back fit and sharp, Cox said the Stones now have two forwards who epitomise the team first mentality.

“It’s great to have two really good strikers who work for the team and are sharp in front of goal.”

After the match, an incident involving racial abuse directed at Dante Baptiste was reported to the referee. Cox expressed deep disappointment.

“It’s disgusting that stuff like that is still going on,” he said.“I hope the person responsible receives the punishment they deserve - there’s no place for that in football.”

Sam also praised Baptiste’s reaction and the unity of the squad.

“This group is so spirited and so together,” he added.“We move on, but we stand united behind Dante.”

Despite adversity on multiple fronts, the Stones delivered a performance full of character.

“We’re really pleased and really proud,” Cox concluded.“The boys showed tremendous resolve. We’ve just got to keep it going.”

Tests don't come much tougher in this division than the visit of Robbie Savage's league leaders Forest Green Rovers on Saturday, 3pm kick off. Can Stones continue their fine run of form and cause an upset? We'll need everyone behind Sam and the team for this one, buy your tickets now!