Vardy doubles up as Tring stun leaders

Athletic went into the game missing several key players through injury and suspension, but the visitors frustrated the league’s highest scorers in the early stages before taking a seventh minute lead through Stuart Stedman’s free-kick.

Langley were evidently rocked and although they pushed for an instant reply, Tring goalkeeper Jack Hopwood was untested and in fact it was Athletic who scored next when Chris Vardy’s cool finish doubled the away side’s advantage.

Kings desperately sought a way back into the game but Tring made life hard for the hosts with a resolute display, and things got even worse for Langley when Dean Hitchcock was sent off before half-time.

The home side managed to pull one goal back shortly after the restart, but Vardy’s second goal of the afternoon sealed a superb victory for Tring.

Athletic, who are 10th in the South Midlands League Premier Division, face another tough test this weekend when they entertain second-placed Sun Sports.