High drama at the Crabble as Maidenhead prevail

Posted Wednesday, November 27, 2019 by PA

Jake Cassidy scored twice as Maidenhead edged a seven-goal thriller against Dover at the Crabble.

The home side made a flying start, with youngster Ruel Sotiriou – on loan from Leyton Orient – heading home from a free-kick in the fourth minute.

But their joy was short-lived as Maidenhead equalised six minutes later, striker Cassidy finding the bottom corner with a low shot.

The early goals continued as Dover regained the lead in the 14th minute through Sotiriou’s well-taken strike.

Ryan Upward brought the visitors level for the second time after 36 minutes as he fired a superb shot past Yusuf Mersin, and they were in front before half-time when Cassidy made the most of a defensive error and slotted in.

A sixth goal arrived early in the second half as Joseph Ellul increased Maidenhead’s lead, but Dover got it back to 4-3 when Paul Rooney scored after 67 minutes.

James Akintunde and Josh Kelly came close to adding to the Magpies’ lead before Dover were awarded a penalty for a foul on Ricky Modeste.

Chris Dunn saved Sotiriou’s spot-kick to preserve Maidenhead’s victory, while Ellul was sent off at the death for a second yellow card.