A LAST-MINUTE penalty helped Weston win their first game of the new year at home to struggling Tonbridge Angels.

Despite their opponents playing the second half with only 10 men, the Seagulls were grateful for Ashley Kington holding his nerve in the final minute to pick up a ‘deserved’ three points.

The squad welcomed back Martin Slocombe and Ben Kirk for the game but were missing Naby Diallo through suspension as well as Brett Trowbridge, Kane Ingram and Luke Purnell who are still injured.

The visitors started the brighter despite starting the day just outside the relegation zone.

Tonbridge went close twice in the opening stages and took the lead on 28 minutes from a set piece.

A free-kick from wide on the left was met at the far post by Gavin McCallum who beat Weston goalkeeper Lloyd Irish

However Irish made a vital stop with his legs just minutes latter to prevent the Seagulls going two down, as McCallum threatened again.

Dayle Grubb and Dan Gregson went close before the equaliser arrived on 34 minutes.

Tonbridge’s goalkeeper Lewis Carey – who spent time on loan at Weston last season – could only parry Kington’s free-kick and Tristan Plummer was on hand to knock in the rebound.

The game turned though just before the interval when Tonbridge were reduced to 10 men as Lee Browning was dismissed for a nasty challenge on Jamie Laird, which sparked a mass brawl and bookings for both sides.

With the numerical advantage, Weston dominated the second half but a resolute Tonbridge could have snatched the win themselves on the counter.

McCallum, who was a threat all afternoon, rounded Irish but with the goal gaping could only fire over the crossbar.

Chaz Hemmings, Grubb, Kington and Kirk all had chances as Weston pressed for a winner but their efforts looked to be in vain until a handball decision went in the Seagulls’ favour in the final few seconds.

Carey got a leg to Kington’s low penalty down the middle, but was unable to keep it out.

The late winner puts Weston in ninth place in the league, two points adrift of the play-off places although they have played more games than most of the teams around them.

A trip to third-placed Sutton United awaits Weston on Saturday. The two sides drew 1-1 when they met in November.