McCann’s pleased with Hendon comeback as young squad picks up a point in derby clash

Hendon manager Gary McCann was pleased to see his young squad overcome an early setback and pick up a point at Wingate & Finchley on Monday.

The Dons fell behind inside the opening minute but equalised through Dave Diedhou midway through the first half and ultimately secured a 1-1 draw which extended their unbeaten run to 10 games.

“We didn’t start well and couldn’t get to grips with them in the first 15 to 20 minutes,” McCann reflected. “The first minute goal was bad defending by us from a corner and it really knocked us back.

“But, to turn that into a positive, we didn’t concede again and we deservedly went in level at half-time. In the second half it was quite even but we did create some very good chances which we failed to take.

“All in all it was a point gained by us. Either team could have won the game in the second half but, equally, both could have just as easily lost it so a draw was the right result.

“We had a really young squad for this game with eight players aged 21 or under in our 16 - and the good news is we should get two or three players back in the next week or so.”

Hendon also drew 1-1 at home against Brentwood Town on Saturday, with Diedhou on target again – but this time at the wrong end.

Kezie Ibe gave the Dons the lead in his 100th appearance for the club, registering from the penalty spot in the 72nd minute, but Hendon lost two points in stoppage time as Diedhou scored an own goal.