Crusaders battle hard for a final day point

Ryan Seager was once again the hero for Hungerford Town, scoring his 27th league goal of the season to earn The Crusaders a last gasp point against promotion chasing Dorking Wanderers.

There was a feel-good atmosphere around Bulpit Lane for fans day. The ground was filled with 635 spectators, some in fancy dress, the second highest league attendance of the campaign.

Dorking's manager, Marc White, had promised to buy one of Hungerford's renowned burgers for each of the visiting fans in the team's colours. The famous food proved so popular that it had sold out before full-time.

On the pitch, the action was equally mouthwatering. The Crusaders started the game on the front foot. Reece Wylie, making his first league start aged 19, was the first to test Dorking's goalkeeper, but his shot was well saved.

March White had rotated his Wanderers side who steadily grew into the game. On 20 minutes, Harry Ottaway missed the best chance of the game when it looked easier to score.

With the teams level at half-time, White made two further changes to his Dorking side. The Wanderers were on top and were rewarded on the hour when Bobby-Joe Taylor cut inside from the right and his powerful shot nestled agonisingly beyond the reach of Luke Cairney.

Despite going a goal down, The Crusaders never stopped believing. Seconds remained when Ryan Seager arrived to tap home Curtis Angell's cross inside the six yard box with almost the final kick of the game.

The Crusaders were delighted with a point and the players and coaches soaked in the plaudits at full time in the late afternoon sunshine. Young fans were thanked for their passionate support with gifts of shinpads, boots, gloves, even sock tape, prompting some of the wildest celebrations of the day.

Crusaders boss Danny Robinson said it was 'fitting' that the 'outrageously good' Seager scored the late equaliser. He praised the 'character, attitude and application' of his entire squad, who have achieved a 12th placed finish despite having the league's smallest budget.

The afternoon showcased all that's been good about Hungerford this season, on and off the pitch. After a well-earned break, they'll be back, hoping for more of the same.