Mathias Earns First County Win

Danny Rowe was the hero as County grabbed a last-minute 2-1 win to lift themselves off the bottom of the League Two table.

Youngster Rowe, who had already claimed the man-of-the-match award, struck in the 92nd minute to earn all three points against visitors Southend United and claim Ray Mathias’ first win as County boss.

The Hatters dominated the first half, with Danny Rowe and Everton loanee James Wallace stealing the show.

Rowe was the instigator for the opener in the first 45 minutes when he strolled past Blair Sturrock and was bodychecked inside the area by Sean Clohessy.

A penalty was awarded, and regular spot-kick man Greg Tansey rifled County into a 1-0 lead.

We never looked like losing our lead from then on. But in typical County fashion, we did anyway.

Anthony Elding spurned two magnificent opportunities to seal the three points, firstly when Rowe skinned Clohessy again down the right-hand side and whipped in a cross which County’s number 9 fluffed with the goal gaping.

The on-loan Rochdale man again then missed his cue as ‘goal hero’ when he was sent clear one-on-one by the brilliant Wallace, but Elding’s left foot shot was weak.

And from that attack, United equalised. Substitute Asante slid past Matty Glennon to level after a quick counter-attack from Paul Sturrock’s men.

It looked like being a frustrating draw for Mathias and County, but in the last minute Wallace whipped a ball in, Elding rose to flick on, and Rowe was left wide open at the far post to hammer home.

Mathias, Ward and Lord watched on in jubilation, as the full-time whistle went and we were off the bottom of the table!

Star-man: Danny Rowe. Superb. As good as Tommy! Mentions to James Wallace, Jordan Rose, and Adam Griffin. As dependable and solid as ever. Well played lads.

Come on County!