Collins fires Tring to third straight win

It was the youngster’s 13th goal of the season as a young Tring side, which included six teenagers, defending superbly to thwart United, who went into the game on the back of a six-game unbeaten run.

Afterwards, a delighted Athletic manager Julian Robinson said: “This was another really hard earned win, especially as we ended up with 10 men.

“That’s nine points in a week, plus seven wins and only five goals conceded from our last nine league games. We are starting to develop good habits.”

The decisive moment of Saturday’s encounter came on 23 minutes when Athletic were awarded a free-kick 28 yards out and Collins stepped up to bend the ball around the wall and inside the near post, giving the visiting goalkeeper no chance

It was a superbly executed set-piece and gave the home side a vital edge in a tight game, as although the visitors played some neat football, they were unable to break down a resolute Athletic defence in a first half of few chances.

The second period was more open and Athletic were presented with a golden chances to double their lead just five minutes in when Ollie Hogg played in Kieran Turner but the goalkeeper produced a terrific save to keep his side in the game.

Collins then rifled a shot wide before Biggleswade began to enjoy more possession but they were constantly frustrated by a well-drilled Tring defence with home goalkeeper Jack Hopwood rarely called into action.

The away side’s best chance to claim a point came 10 minutes from full-time when Will Wright’s excellent free-kick from just outside the penalty area hit the post and then smacked into Hopwood’s face before bouncing away to safety.

Athletic had two clear-cut chances to put the game to bed as the United goalkeeper twice denied Sam Joliffe, first from close-range and then from a header.

It was all one-way traffic in the closing minutes as the visitors pushed for an equaliser, and they were helped by Stewart King’s sending off, but despite piling on the pressure, Tring restricted Biggleswade to few sights of goal as they held on for all three points.

Athletic were also victorious last Tuesday when they ran out 3-1 winners over Holmer Green.

Kieron Turner opened the scoring for Tring before Tom Peddle-James brought the visitors level, but goals from Chris Vardy and Vinnie Iannone ensured victory for Athletic.

Those wins see Tring up to ninth in the South Midlands League Premier Division.

Athletic were also in action again last night (Tuesday) when they travelled to London Tigers and this weekend, they visit Hertford Town.