Widnes edge Warrington Town to earn local derby bragging rights

WIDNES........................................2 WARRINGTON FC ......................1 WIDNES FC earned bragging rights with a 2-1 win over Warrington Town.

A fifth minute pen from Kev Towey put Widnes ahead, before Darrhyl Mason doubled Towey took the brunt of a challenge from Daniel Ventre, still managing to dispatch a ball to partner Mason, who was felled by Joe Coombs, leaving the ref to point to the spot. Towey fired into the net.

Both teams shared halfchances. Widnes’ Jon Dawson fired a shot t too hot for keeper Wills.

Minutes later, Warrington’s Sean Clancy engineered space for a cross that James Dean miscued.

Widnes doubled their lead on 17. Mason finished well with an effort into the corner.

Town couldn’t cope with Mason, who had the Stuart Mellish’s side on the ropes midway through.

Mason linked up with Towey whose backheel set up Mason but his effort bounced back off the post.

Widnes controlled the rest of the half, but Warrington had chances.

Mike Grogan rose to head the ball towards goal but it was cleared off the line and Ryan Winder blazed over.

Warrington spurned a chance to get a goal back on half-time.

Sub Lewis Codling made much of a mix-up, but a poor touch let him down, as he fired wide. Widnes were value for their 2-0 lead.

The Yellows made changes at the break and had a goal ruled offside.

Town looked like a better side. Codling was good following his introduction and flicked it over Burke before teeing up Dean, whose shot was beaten away.

Warrington found a way through to get a goal back. Subs Josh Walne and Scott Harries linked before picking out Codling, who scored.

Widnes had Mottram and crossbar to thank. Codling forced a save before Dean rattled the woodwork with a long-ranger.

Widnes had chances. Dawson robbed O’Donnell in Wire territory, but only forced a save.

Sub James McShane had a chance to put Town to bed, latching onto a Dawson ball but he blew it. Owolabi shot but Wills saved.

The last 10 were tasty. It fell to Clancy, but the winger couldn’t shoot. Mellish’s side probed. Walne’s pull back was cleared and Mitchell disposed Deegan to clear. Widnes’ defence held on.