Wealdstone put their FA Trophy disappointment behind them as Gordon Bartlett’s side recorded a 3-1 win against lowly Carshalton Athletic in the Ryman Premier League.

The Stones’ victory owed a lot to an improved second-half display as it seemed the Robins may upset the form book at the interval.

Bartlett’s men controlled possession for long periods in the opening 45 minutes but struggled to turn their dominance into chances.

Elliot Godfrey showed neat control before he fired a shot over the crossbar and Luke Pigden was brilliantly denied by a point-blank save from Carshalton goalkeeper Dean Snedker.

The Robins’ direct approach almost paid off as Lewis Taylor was left with room but his lofted shot was too high.

Carshalton, who had only claimed two league victories prior to the game, looked dangerous and the Stones defence had to be alert to deny the lively Alex Addai.

After Snedker made a good block from Johnny Wright, Wealdstone managed to make the breakthrough. Tom Pett’s effort on goal was saved but the ball rebounded off Quincy Rowe and into the net.

After working hard to gain a lead, the Stones let it slip immediately. Jonathan North pulled off a fine stop but moments later Adriano Moraes levelled with a well-struck shot.

Wealdstone took some time to settle in the second period but they eventually started to apply pressure on the Robins’ defence, with the persistent Wright causing several problems.

He played an important role in helping the Stones retake the lead as he played the ball to Pett and his clever pass was met by Godfrey, who rifled past the exposed Snedker.

Bartlett’s men then took control and Pett drilled an effort wide after a neat through ball from the influential Wright. With 17 minutes remaining the Stones sealed victory. From a corner, Sean Cronin headed powerfully into the area and Scott McGleish managed to finish off from close range.

The Robins pushed forward late on in search of a route back into the game but the Stones comfortably saw out the remaining quarter of an hour.

With a few of the top sides dropping points at the weekend, Wealdstone were able to take advantage and move up one place in the table to fifth spot.

The Stones, who have taken 29 points from their 14 matches this season, are five points off league leaders Maidstone United However, Bartlett’s side have games in hand on the teams above them and have a good chance of taking another three points when they travel to struggling Cray Wanderers on Saturday.