K’s Impress at Silver Jubilee Park
Eight years ago Hendon were on the receiving end of the infamous 'Dowson Day', when Ks' then-manager brought in five new signings who clicked instantly to beat The Dons 3-0.
This weekend, the same opponents suffered from what might go on to be known as 'Dynan Day'. This was the new manager's third game in charge, but was the first in which he had been able to put his own stamp on the team by including a host of his new signings.
The starting lineup included four debutants - seemingly kept a secret to surprise Hendon - with a fifth and sixth coming off the bench in the second half.
As the first real hint of what a Leigh Dynan might look like it was certainly encouraging for Ks fans, as the side's pressing and tempo continually disrupted Hendon from playing the sort of attractive passing football that had led them to second in the league with a 100% home record.
One of the debutants, Reece Grant, wasted no time in making an impact. In just the third minute he forced Tom Lovelock into a save and then a minute later he gave Ks the lead, Tom Derry unselfishly squaring to present him with a tap-in after a fine run in behind the home defence.
Ks continued to menace in the early part of the game with Claudiu Vilcu heading over, Manu Gogonas firing wide and Alec Fiddes producing another save from Lovelock.
Ks certainly were not going to have it all their own way though and in the latter part of the first half Hendon took control in what was by far their best period of the game. Rob Tolfrey had to make good saves from Dave Diedhiou and Ashley Nathaniel-George and then on 28 minutes the scores were level, Niko Muir finding space in the box and drilling past Tolfrey. Ks might have gone in behind but for Nathaniel-George firing wide.
After half-time though Ks were back to disrupting Hendon's rhythm and on 54 minutes the lead was restored, Taylor Miles finding the empty net after Ambrose Gnahore's shot was saved by Lovelock.
Tolfrey, having his best game for some time, made two good second half saves, both from Zak Graham, and the same player also hit the post.
But it was always going to be Ks' day once they went 3-1 up, Tom Derry rounding off a wonderful passing move by slotting the ball past Lovelock after good work from Gogonas and Tom Collins.
Substitute Daniel Ajakaiye went close in stoppage time but Ks were soon celebrating after a fine performance from their new look team, with new left-back Andrew Musungu particularly excelling. Ks now go forwards with a renewed confidence around the club and a chance to get back into the playoff places on Tuesday.
Match report by Simon Grier.
