Never mind the return of Andre McCollin, Kingstonian boss Tommy Williams believes Malachi Hudson could provide the spark to take his team to the Ryman Premier League play-offs.
The 19-year-old’s double led the Ks fightback on Saturday as Williams’ men came from 2-0 down at home to Needham Market to land a 4-2 win and move to within a point of the division’s top five.
Hudson’s goals levelled matters before McCollin and Pelayo Pico Gomez struck to make it three wins in a week for Ks after last Saturday’s win at Burgess Hill Town and the midweek League Cup triumph at Leiston.
Wing wizard: Kingstonian's Dan Bennett gets round the outside of the Needham Market defence on Saturday
“Malachi hasn’t chipped in with enough goals and has been in and out of the side for one reason or another,” said Williams.
“But he showed what he is capable of on Saturday and I was delighted for him.
“He is only 19 years of age and has bags of ability. He is a talent I believe in and I think he has a bright future in the game.
Up for it: Sam Page leaps to a meet a cross in Saturday's 4-2 Ryman Premier League win over Needham Market Picture: Sylvester George
“It is difficult for a winger and for someone of his age to produce week in, week out, but we are developing him and the goals will hopefully be the lift he needs.”
Ks’ return to form – after a miserable Christmas and new year period that saw them lose four games in a row – has renewed hope of a successful play-off push.
McCollin’s return, coupled with news Jake Kempton and Reece Beccles are nearing fitness, is timely given there remains 18 league games to play.
Thanks for coming back: Striker Andre McCollin celebrates his goal with Ks team boss Tommy Williams Picture: Sylvester George
“Someone like Andre is always going to score goals at this level, but he has also given us a bit of extra pace,” added Williams.
“If we can keep playing the sort of football we did in the last half an hour on Saturday, then we are not going to be far off the top five.
“There are still 18 games to go, which is a lot of football to be played. We have a good balance in the squad and we are happy with what we have.
On target: Dan Bennett takes a pot shot against Needham Market at Kingsmeadow on Saturday Picture: Sylvester George
“If we can keep injury free, then we have a good chance.”
Ks head to Enfield Town on Saturday.
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