Royston Town bolster title hopes with Blues cruise

Simon Thomas’ brace either side of the interval, complemeneted by Jack Bradshaw’s spot-kick double - despite the midfeidler also missing another - ensured a convincing 4-1 home win over Arlesey Town and kept them in the Southern League Division One Central title race.

The hosts started the better and on 20 minutes they struck first.

A fine Scott Bridges pass found the eager and alert Thomas and he displayed good strength and poise to run on and finish with accuracy.

The home side remained in command until half-time and should have gone further ahead moments after the break.

Rhys Hoenes was felled in the box and Bradshaw seized the ball. However, his penalty was kept out.

That slip-up looked to have derailed the home side as a few minutes later, Arlesey were level.

The ball was poached in midfield by the visitors and eventually found its way to Jevani Brown who struck to level proceedings at 1-1.

That lead only lasted seven minutes as Thomas again showed power and determination to drive on to goal and sidefoot home.

Hoenes was again fouled for penalty number two on 66 minutes and this time Bradshaw – showing no sign of nerves after his previously saved effort - made no mistake.

Then again, on 73 minutes, Ingrey, going away from the goal, was recklessly tripped and Bradshaw powered home the penalty.