By Christian Hile
Mickleover ran out deserved winners against a robust and direct Warrington Town side on a cold Tuesday night.
Mickleover dominated the first half from start to finish, but were unable to find that elusive goal. Sports were quick out the traps as Baskerville’s drive fizzed wide. Mickleover had their first shot on target on the 18th minute as a well worked free kick fell loose to Grocott, but Willis saved well down at his near post for the visitors. Sports did have the ball in the net on 25 minutes, but it was flagged offside as Baskerville tapped in from an offside position after Morrison forced Willis into a save. Mickleover again threatened the visitor’s goal as Willis tipped Dales’ close range free kick wide. Mickleover went into the break disappointed not to be in front, due to their dominance.
Mickleover came out with the wind still in their sails as Grocott’s dipping effort went just over the crossbar. Sports finally found the back of the on 54 minutes thanks to Andy Dales as he coolly slotted past Willis in the Warrington goal after an eye of the needle ball by Morrison. Warrington almost pegged Sports back just 2 minutes later as Broadhead was forced to head off the line from a Warrington corner. Warrington again came close to scoring from a corner when Kilheeney’s header forced a great reaction save by Tolley. Mickleover were able to stand firm against late pressure from Warrington to run out 1-0 winners.
Mickleover will go into the eagerly anticipated game against Matlock Town on Saturday at the Don Amott Arena in good spirits, after an impressive victory.
Team
Tolley, Bennett, Turner, McGrath, Mills, Broadhead (c), Dales, Grocott, Morrison (Litchfield 75), Baskerville, Schofield
Unused Subs
Belgrave, Lansdowne, Burgin
Yellow Cards
Grocott ( 34 ), McGrath (60)