Wealdstone duo Scott McGleish and Sean Cronin were left relieved – according to boss Gordon Bartlett – after stand-in goalkeeper Luke Chambers arrived in time to start Saturday’s 3-1 win at St Albans City And Chambers played a starring role as the Stones moved up to 11th place in the Conference South.

The former Dunstable stopper was already filling in for regular number one Jonathan North, although Bartlett was aware the former Watford stopper would be unavailable a month in advance, leading to the short-term addition of the former Southend United professional.

However the 21-year-old is based in Lincoln and was held up in traffic on the motorway, leading Bartlett to ponder his emergency third choice between the sticks.

“Unfortunately he got stuck in traffic on the way down but he arrived at about 20 past two,” Bartlett explained.

“There were sighs of relief from Scott McGleish and Sean Cronin because they were the ones I was going to call upon otherwise.”

As it was, Chambers went on to impress for the Stones and Bartlett explained he had been chasing the former Welsh youth cap previously.

“We knew Jonathan was going to be unavailable about a month ago. Luke was under contract at Dunstable but was no longer playing there.

“It took a little while to get that contract cancelled but once he did, we got in touch.

“We did not want to take him on loan because if you take a loan player at this level you have to pay them for a month.

“He played against us for Concord Rangers in the play-offs two years ago.”

Bartlett added: “We have agreed since Saturday that if Jonathan is unavailable again in the future then Luke would play.

“He enjoyed himself and said it was nice to be back in that environment again.”

A brace from veteran striker Jefferson Louis set the Stones on their way to victory, with the former Hendon and Margate hitman setting up Matt Ball’s decisive third strike to round off an excellent display.

Bartlett said: “Jeff has certainly had his critics since he arrived but I think those who made those comments are maybe eating a little bit of humble pie now.

“He is getting there and I think it is important people realise his game. Just because he is a big, strong guy, it does not mean he is great in the air. We are also learning his qualities,” added Bartlett.

The Stones host Bishop's Stortford at Grosvenor Vale on Saturday and half-price entry is available to anyone who provides proof of an HA4 address.