There was finally some joy for Welling United as they beat Carshalton Athletic in a tense Isthmian League Premier Division encounter. After the match, Wings’ manager Ryan Maxwell offered his thoughts.

He said: “We were one-nil down inside nine minutes but we recovered really well and we scored from a moment that we highlighted that we could score from so the boys dug deep, the boys didn’t panic. They stuck to the plan and it was important that they did because we believed in it and it worked for that goal.

“I was really pleased with how we did respond. Going one-nil down can be a real massive blow but as I’ve said many times, my teams and this team have real character and we’ve showed it multiple times without getting a result. I’m just delighted for them because self belief. When there’s a way, Tonight their hard work has paid off and that will put them in good stead.”

Although delighted with the win. Maxwell knows that there are big games ahead. “We can’t get carried away.” he said. “We’ve won two on the bounce already and we need to get back to doing things like that. Ultimately, it was a game of football where you could get three points but there was a lot more at stake so they’ll be drained and physically tired tomorrow, and probably until Saturday. We’ll bring them in for a light session on Thursday, recover the best way we can, refresh their brains and go in on Saturday with confidence that we can win again.”

All sixteen players used contributed, however, Maxwell was particularly impressed with Zak O’Keefe. “Zak was outstanding.” he confirmed. “For a young man to play in games of this magnitude and in the situation we’re in, he’s getting so much out of his loan and I’m loving having him here. He’s a great kid. He’s been brought up really well, clearly. Great attitude and character and since the day he’s come in he’s been brilliant. 

“He’s a real shining light in this team, He’s a great example of how it doesn’t matter how old you are, if you’re good enough, you’re good enough and he’s shown that he’s got the personality to cope with this. His performance tonight was well beyond his age. Zak is loaned (to Welling) until the end of the season.”

Goalkeeper Mackenzie Foley made two stunning saves and dealt with everything thrown at him “What a goalkeeper.” he purred. “He’s enjoying himself. He’s playing with a smile on his face. He’s in it and his first words were “I’m loving it gaff.” That’s what you want. Positivity from your goalkeeper, self belief but how good is he at the minute. He’s been fantastic. He’s getting us points on the board. In these big games, keepers will have to make saves, and he’s doing it and I’m absolutely delighted to have him here.”

Despite naming those two, Maxwell knows that it was a team effort. He said “I think the team was the best player on the pitch, and that’s what we need. We’re not fluid yet and I’d love to get that in the team but right now, I can’t look at five or six aspects of the game, I can only look at winning. I know how to build a team and make sure that everyone’s contributing with goals, but right now that’s not where we’re at. It’s getting points on the board and I’m just focussing on that.”

Picture supplied by Keith Gillard.