Williams to the rescue as last-gasp Poppies stay in control of play-off destiny

In weeks to come, Kai William's late strike may become supporters' defining moment of the season.

That goal both edged the Poppies a point closer to the play-off promised land, while also keeping three promotion rivals two points behind them.

But twice in two games, Kettering have left it far too late for comfort for manager Liam McDonald's liking, and he cut a frustrated figure at full time.

He is clearly concerned at just how difficult his side are making it for themselves.

Visitors Redditch started much the stronger, with great intent on disrupting the Kettering midfield like a tangle of rabid octopus.

After just five minutes, Paul White was hacked down by the high studs of Aaron Bishop whilst holding on to a catch - red cards have been shown for lesser challenges.

They continued to push high up the field and hit the post three minutes later when Danny King cut inside the area before curling a sumptuous effort that White could only watch bounce off the far upright.

Both sides had strong penalty shouts on 28 minutes - White appearing to bring down Alex Cameron after a poor back pass had initially put the keeper in trouble.

At the other end, Eddie Panter was a constant nuisance for the Robins and was upended by Joel Shambrook but no decision was given.

However, Kettering were given a chance from the spot on 45 minutes when once again it was Panter who was sliced down, this time by Alex Foreshaw.

But similar to his penalty miss three weeks ago, Panter opted to send his spot kick down the middle and Tyrese Warmington stood his ground to smoother the penalty.

The second half was another tight affair which Kettering edged despite playing against the wind.

Ben Isaacson's header on 52 minutes was well kept out and Warmington remained the busier of the two keepers, having to pounce on a dangerous ball minutes later with Panter rocketing towards him.

Lewis Coyle sent in a superb hit towards goal on 70 minutes but Warmington again was up to the test by parrying the swirling effort.

Robbie Bunn sent a shot in from a tight angle on 74 minutes but White was well placed to save.

The linesman's flag came to Kettering's aid on 88 minutes after Redditch captain Alex Cameron slid the ball home from an offside position.

But the warning was heeded and, seemingly happy with a point, McDonald substituted Panter for the returning defender Levi Andoh.

But the change made no difference as Redditch struck moments after the change.

A counter attack on the left-hand side caught Kettering unaware (including the newly introduced Andoh) and a ball across the face of goal was tipped home by former Northampton Town midfielder Matt Warburton from close range out on 91 minutes.

However, this Kettering side doesn't give up, and they surged forward for the equaliser which came five minutes later - a ball inside the box from Wes York eventually found substitute Williams who rifled home through a sea of bodies.

There was even time for another attempt on goal with the clock showing 98 minutes, but Blaine Rowe couldn't keep his header down.

The Poppies’ destiny is still very much in their own hands, but they are going to have to find new ways of breaking down disruptive teams.

Panter needs a team-mate up the field to complement his runs, while a returning George Forsyth would be a blessing by adding further height and desire to the squad.

It doesn't get any easier for the Poppies as fifth-placed Halesowen Town are the visitors to Latimer Park on Saturday (ko 3pm).

Kettering cannot be content with holding on for a point in that one, otherwise they will be picked off.

After counting down the ‘cup finals’ for the past two months, Saturday really is the winner takes all match for the Poppies.