Bacup beat odds with Hall winner

NW COUNTIES DIVISION ONE ECCLESHALL ............... 1 BACUP BOROUGH ....... 2 SHELDAN KEAY BACUP Borough overcame adversity to win at Eccleshall on Saturday after having just one player named as a substitute.

Brent Peters’ side came out on top despite having a depleted squad for the game, with suspensions, injuries and other commitments forcing a lot of players out.

It was an even contest as the first half progressed, with both teams competing well against each other.

With half-time fast approaching, the deadlock was finally broken when Bacup scored from a corner.

Anthony Hall provided a quality ball into the box, allowing captain Kelvin Tripper to rise and send a bullet header into the net.

There was little time following the goal for Eccleshall to hit back as the half-time whistle was blown and Bacup led 1-0.

The second half got underway and it was Bacup with the first opportunity of the half when the lively Jamie Higgins fired a shot narrowly off target.

Bacup then won a free kick that eventually found its way to Johnathan Thompson, but he also sent his effort wide.

They nearly got their goal when Boyne raced clear of the opposition defence, but was then fouled by the Eccleshall goalkeeper right on the edge of the penalty box.

The referee decided to only hand him a yellow card, and Bacup couldn’t take advantage as the free kick was fired over the crossbar.

Against the run of play, Eccleshall then managed to get back on level terms when Stephen Bennett netted for the hosts.

Aaron Ashley was able to pull off an initial save, but Bennett reacted quickest to smash home the rebound from close range.

Eccleshall weren’t on level terms for long though, as it only took Bacup a few minutes until they restored their lead.

Anthony Hall created space for himself before shooting towards goal, with the effort taking a deflection and sending in past goalkeeper Stuart Robertson.