Dulwich Hamlet back into National League South play-off zone after 3-1 win at Welling United

BY MARK DOIG

Quade Taylor bagged a brace as Dulwich Hamlet avenged their defeat over the festive season at home to Welling United.

Victory for the visitors put them back into the National League South play-off places while defeat for the Wings leaves them perilously close to the two teams below them.

Although Welling came out brightly, and Dipo Akinyemi fired over from distance, it was men against boys after that as Dulwich looked far more threatening when they attacked. Jordan Green rounded debut goalkeeper Sam Jackson but Tom Davis got back to clear off the line. Chaos then ensued as Welling defenders threw themselves into the line of fire before it fell for James Dayton whose shot was saved by Jackson.

Dulwich went ahead after 15 minutes. A corner was cleared as far as Taylor and his shot was deflected beyond Jackson.

Akinyemi had a chance for Welling before they had another opportunity when former Hamlet full-back Aaron Barnes’ first time shot drew a stunning reaction save out of Charlie Grainger.

That proved to be pivotal as Dulwich doubled their lead. Dayton’s shot was blocked but it fell kindly to Chike Kandi and he made no mistake with a clinical first time finish.

Ade Shokunbi produced a brilliant piece of skill to beat Taylor and he burst to the byline before firing a fierce low ball across the face of goal but no Welling striker could get there to touch it home.

After the interval Kandi was sent clear but Jackson came out quickly to block. Dulwich added a third six minutes into the second half..Once again Welling struggled to clear and, again, it fell kindly for Taylor to blast home.

Grainger was again called into action to make an excellent save from Akinyemi’s free-kick. The Dulwich goalkeeper then made another save, this time more straightforward, to claim Tom Derry’s header.

Arthur Penney headed over before Welling pulled one back. Akinyemi’s shot was blocked by Ronnie Vint’s arm in the penalty area and the former Dulwich striker took the responsibility to convert from the spot.

Solid Dulwich defending kept Welling chances to a minimum although Akinyemi was only just off target after a corner was headed out into his path.

There were no further chances for Welling and Dulwich might have added a fourth in injury time but Dayton fired over.

PICTURES: DAVE BUDDEN

Main Pic: Team mates celebrate with scorer Chike Kandi