Mitchell Parker marked his return to the Rivermoor with two goals as Reading City fought back to beat a stubborn Southall in the Cherry Red Records Combined Counties League Premier North opener.
The Cityzens weathered an early storm that could have seen the visitors with a healthier lead thank 1-0 but as it was, the returning Parker’s fine brace sent Simon Johnson’s side in 2-1 up at the break.
The second half started in similar fashion but Reading captain Alfie Grant headed home at the far post after good work from Jemel Johnson on his City debut.
![](https://footballinberkshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/MItchell-Parker-e1627634979792.jpg)
In Division One, Chalvey Sports had a point in the bag until the final moments of the game when Kensington & Ealing Borough snatched a late winner.
Neil Sanneh saved a penalty for the Stabmonks at 0-0 but Kensington did score on the half hour only for Rhys Harper to level for Chalvey minutes later.
GOAL!!! @KE_BoroFC 1-1 @ChalveySportsFC Harper 38mins #COYS #stabmonks pic.twitter.com/Ng04QQuvtq
— Scott McNeish (@darthscrote) July 31, 2021
It looked like spoils shared on the opening day until the final minutes, a tap in from close range winning it for the home side.