Elston United made it four league wins on the bounce as Rui Thacker’s 89th-minute winner secured a dramatic and hard-earned 3–2 victory at Ravenshead.

Elston started strongly, with Teddy Furman, Will Veys and James Scott all having early opportunities as the visitors enjoyed the better of the opening exchanges. But, against the run of play, Ravenshead took the lead after 26 minutes. A long clearance from the home goalkeeper caused confusion in the Elston defence and a Ravenshead attacker took advantage to head his side in front.

Elston continued to dominate possession. Sam Lloyd fired over from distance, Scott headed wide and then, just before half-time, saw another effort cleared off the line as the visitors somehow went into the break 1–0 behind.

They did not have to wait long for an equaliser. Two minutes into the second half, Harry Scott won possession in midfield and the ball was worked out to Tom Hazelwood. His pinpoint cross was met superbly by James Scott to head home from 15 yards out.

Veys almost put Elston ahead moments later, but his shot went narrowly wide. Despite another spell of Elston pressure, it was Ravenshead who regained the lead after 65 minutes. Cristian Costoiu did well to parry a long-range effort, but the home striker reacted quickest to convert the rebound.

Once again, Elston responded positively and substitute Miles Hopewell made an immediate impact, turning home James Smith’s cross to make it 2–2.

Costoiu then produced two fine saves in quick succession to keep the scores level before Elston finally found the decisive goal in the 89th minute. Smith and Hazelwood combined to release Jacob Mulliss on halfway. Mulliss beat his defender, raced into the penalty area and squared for Thacker to finish at the far post.

More than ten minutes of added time followed, with Ryan Fletcher going close to adding a fourth, but Elston held firm to secure another valuable three points.

Having twice fallen behind, Elston showed plenty of character and resilience to keep playing their football and eventually earn a deserved fourth successive league victory.

Elston United: Cristian Costoiu, Tom Hazelwood, James Smith (Toby Craven 75), Sam Lloyd, Archie Dillon (Tom Newbould 75), Teddy Furman (Miles Hopewell 68), Harry Scott, Ryan Fletcher, James Scott, Rui Thacker, Will Veys (Jacob Mulliss 68).