Kempston's first game in 20 days occurred down the A6 in Barton, in which was the first match of the Ash Fuller era following the resignation of Chris Nunn last week.

Harry Riley returned to the starting line up having been sidelined for over a month through injury, Academy product Harvey Williams was also given a start out wide.

Kempston's first chance came on just 8 minutes, Ben Stevens who was playing centrally found Ben Baker on the right wing, however his chipped effort was slightly too high.

No major chances were created for the next 15 minutes, however the hosts opened the scoring mid-way through the half. The Walnuts initially clearing a corner well, but the next ball in found McKenzie-Lowe unmarked in the box to head past Rose from close range.

The goal seemed to wake Kempston up, Stevens going close with a free kick from 25 yards out. Shortly after, Rovers were given the chance to equalise from the spot. Hatch getting clipped in the box, no complaints from the home side.
Ben Baker stepped up, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to get his 14th goal of the season.

Into the second half and Baker had two opportunities in quick succession to put Rovers in front. Hatch linked well with the winger but his effort from 12 yards just beat the far post. From the resulting goal kick, possession was gained again quickly where Baker was through on goal but his shot was this time saved from a tight angle.

Chances dried up from then on until the 75th minute, substitute Wielblad, Simpson and Lincoln all linking well down the left before the latter put an inch perfect pass through to Hatch who expertly lobbed over the onrushing goalkeeper to put the Walnuts in front.

The lead only lasted four minutes, Rovers caught out by a ball through the middle which ex-Walnut Scott Joseph latched onto, he rounded Rose and passed the ball into the net.

The game was open, Kempston having more possession and knocking on the door with Barton looking to counter. The best chance fell to Wielblad five minutes from time, his poked effort from 10 yards going narrowly wide.

Kempston move to 12th place whereas Barton remain at the foot of the table. Our next fixture is on Monday 2nd January where we host Biggleswade Town at Hillgrounds.