Youth and Experience mix well for U23 Development side. 

Cray Valley gave a debut to Jack Beerling who turned 16 just under one month ago, putting in an accomplished performance at right back belying his age and certainly not looking out of place.

Two other 16 year olds twins Kyrece and Kyrell also made appearances however it was their more famous father Kevin Lisbie, 42 on Saturday, who came on as an over age player for a cameo performance near the end and stole the show.

Showing the youngsters how it is done and using his experience, over 560 games at all levels and 169 goals including a hat trick at the Valley for Charlton in the Premier League against Liverpool, Kevin grabbed a deserved equaliser in the 88th minute.

A Harvey Meech free kick was headed back in the penalty area and Kevin was on hand to pounce, chest the ball down, swivel and slam a low shot past the keeper and into the back of the net. 

Cray Valley kicking towards the quaggy end had started the game brightly, very much on the front foot, forcing the Tooting & Mitcham keeper Conor Beatie to make a couple of outstanding saves in quick succession.

However it was the visitors who took the lead somewhat against the run of play when Kelvin Aduey finished well after being put through. The visitors looked dangerous on the break but Cray Valley with Harvey Meech catching the eye, continued to create chances. Lewis Cotter, Kyrece Lisbie and Daudi Irakoze all had efforts on goal, the latter drilling a low shot against the foot of the far post.

Abdul Sankoh also went close with a free kick. Overall Cray’s play edged the first half and they could count themselves unlucky to go in behind at half time. 

The visitors enjoyed more of the game in the second half and were on top for periods, coming close to doubling their lead when a stunning drive from outside the box smacked against the post. However it was left to Kevin Lisbie at the end to grab the headline and earn a deserved point in an entertaining encounter. 

Cray Valley U23’s continue their Bluefin Insurance Development League campaign with another home game next Wednesday at The Artic Stadium against Herne Bay. Kick Off 7.45pm and admission is just £3 and kids for £1. Hope to see you there. 

Cray line up: Docherty, Beerling, Sankoh, Cotter, Aaron Romal, Norman, Meech, Farmer, James, Lisbie Kyrece, Irakoze. subs used Kpodo, Lisbie Kyrell, Lisbie Kevin.

sub not used: Millett.