Ashford United striker Gary Lockyer proving his worth after unfair criticism, while Rhyle Ovenden returns after 14-month injury lay-off

Striker Gary Lockyer is answering his critics at Ashford in the best possible way.

Lockyer scored for the second week running as the Nuts & Bolts maintained their Isthmian South East play-off push with a 2-0 win at Three Bridges on Saturday.

He’s their 16-goal leading scorer, which makes the stick he’s received all the more puzzling.

“Gal’s had unjust criticism from a section of fans but unfortunately that’s what happens in football,” said Ashford manager Tommy Warrilow.

“We had seven days in for him the other week but he’s a local boy who loves the club and supports the club and is involved with the club.

“He wears his heart on his sleeve and he gets frustrated when things don’t go for him, but we had a good chat and he’s cashed in with goals in the last two games. Not that he’s got anything to prove to us.

“He gives absolutely everything in every game he plays and the criticism has been really unfair.

“Where he’s a local boy, he probably feels it more because he lives in the town and you can’t get away from it.

“But he’s a big boy as well and he’s going to play a massive part in our run-in. I’m glad he’s getting goals but I wouldn’t be concerned if he wasn’t because his overall game’s been brilliant and I know what he brings to the team.

“Defenders are so wary of him, sometimes he can take two out of a game and make space for others.”

Lockyer added to Johan ter Horst’s opener as seventh-placed Ashford stayed a point behind Sevenoaks, who occupy the final play-off spot.

The game also marked the return of midfielder Rhyle Ovenden after 14 months out with a knee injury.

He came on as a 74th-minute substitute for Rob Saunders.

“I’m so pleased for him,” said Warrilow. “You won’t meet a more professional boy than Rhyle.

“It’