Stones boss hails hitman after derby win

Dec 29 2009 By Tim Edwards

Wealdstone 2-1 Harrow Borough

CALLUM Martin showed why he can play a crucial role in Wealdstone's quest for promotion after a tireless man-of-the-match display in a hard-fought triumph over their derby rivals.

The injury-plagued striker has overcome a series of set-backs but is confident the time has come to put his football career firmly back on track.

While he has yet to complete 90 minutes this season, Martin showed on Monday that he can still pose a threat and will be hoping to stay injury-free in a bid to follow in his twin brother Carl's footsteps - his sibling secured a summer move to League Two play-off hopefuls Crewe Alexandra, something which Stones boss Gordon Bartlett believes aided Callum's rehabilitation.

"It's like having a new striker", said the manager. "Callum has had a lot of injury problems and lost his focus but Carl's move has reignited his passion and desire to go on and do well for himself.

"He's an excellent footballer who gives us another dimension on the pitch, but we've got to continue nursing him back to full fitness."

Loan ranger Billy Gibson grabbed the hosts' goals after 21 and 51 minutes either side of Dean Fenton's 40th minute deserved equaliser for Harrow.

Stones started like a train at the Vale, hitting the woodwork in the first minute before Gibson won and converted a penalty after being tripped by Kwasi Frempong.

Alan Massey, who is suspended for this Saturday's home clash with Ashford Town, and Martin went close to extending their lead before Fenton restored parity with a driven shot after good work by Rocky Baptiste.

The visitors dominated the final exchanges of the first half Bartlett admits he was relieved to hear the half time whistle.

"When they scored the game changed. We seemed to have doubts in our minds while Harrow had renewed belief. I'm satisfied with the result but it was hardly a vintage performance."

Harrow skipper Wayne Walters went close with a header early in the second half before Gibson restored Stones' lead after some nifty footwork.

An offside flag denied Dewayne Clarke a second equaliser for Harrow while Martin saw a late header cannon back of the woodwork.

Wealdstone: Woods, McCoy, Chappell, Locke, Massey, Corcoran, Gibson, O'Leary, Spendlove, Martin, E'Beyer.

Attendance: 666.