LYDNEY Town were unable to make an early lead count as Carterton fought back to claim a 2-1 victory in Hellenic League Division One.

Tom Pass returned in goal for the hosts, while new signing Rory Preston impressed in midfield and Keelan Hamblett returned following suspension.

The game started at a lively pace, with Ibrahim and Tyler Blount causing problems down the flanks for Lydney while Carterton's leading scorer Kyle Chester threatened at the other end.

Lydney took the lead after 15 minutes when Lewis Thompson's effort was blocked and fell kindly for Arthur Nkrumah, who tucked the ball inside the far post.

The hosts enjoyed a strong spell following the opener and almost doubled their advantage when Preston unleashed an effort from 30 yards which beat goalkeeper Matthews but crashed against the post.

Carterton gradually grew into the contest and Pass produced an excellent point-blank save to deny Scott before Chester headed the resulting corner over.

Chester was not to be denied for long and levelled five minutes later when he was left unmarked to head home at the near post, sending the sides into half-time level at 1-1.

Chances proved harder to come by during a scrappy second half before Carterton completed their turnaround after 70 minutes.

A ball over the top was only partially cleared by Warren and Finley Baker took advantage, firing home from 12 yards to put the visitors ahead.

Aston Jeffs replaced Thompson and was quickly presented with an opportunity to equalise, but sent his effort wide under pressure.

Carterton defended well during the closing stages to frustrate Lydney and secure all three points.

Town have since strengthened their squad with the return of former wide man Archie Myatt following a short spell with neighbours Cinderford Town.