Home   Dartford   Sport   Article

Dartford captain Elliot Bradbrook on the late goal which earned his side a draw against Maidstone United

Elliot Bradbrook was amazed when his late equaliser against Maidstone was allowed to stand.

The assistant referee flagged for offside when Bradbrook's shot flew past goalkeeper Lee Worgan at Princes Park with Dartford trailing 1-0 to their Kent rivals.

That was because Danny Harris, stood close to Worgan, was the wrong side of the last defender.

Elliot Bradbrook challenges Jay May during Dartford's 1-1 draw with Maidstone Picture: Andy Payton
Elliot Bradbrook challenges Jay May during Dartford's 1-1 draw with Maidstone Picture: Andy Payton

Dartford's celebrations were cut short by the flag but referee Ian Cooper over-ruled his assistant after a lengthy discussion by the corner flag, the goal was given and it finished 1-1.

Bradbrook said: "The ball's just come to me in the box and I've put it in.

"The linesman's flagged for offside because he said there were a few guys in an offside position.

"I know that's the new rule but the ref said he was standing right behind me when I kicked it and when I kicked it, it's gone straight in. It's gone past the keeper, who's dived for it and I don't think there was anyone in the way of it.

"I can't believe he's over-turned it, really, but he was standing right behind me."

Alex Flisher had given Maidstone a 52nd-minute lead when Callum McNaughton's attempted clearance from Matt Bodkin's cross ricocheted off the winger's head and flew past Deren Ibrahim.

Bradbrook said: "I thought we were the better side. I thought we played quite well. We caused them problems and I don't think they really caused us problems at all.

"I think that's a little bit how they play - they've obviously been very tight defensively this year and they try to nick goals. Even the goal they scored was a clearance from us and he's headed it into the back of his head and it's gone in.

"I thought we were good value (for the point) and I was a little bit disappointed we didn't get all three, to be honest.

"We hit the bar and the post three times in the game, scored one, so on another day, that's a win."

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More