MILLERS ON SONG AND DANCING TO BALL’S TUNE

ALATE Martin Ball header decided the game as Carlton beat Worksop 1-0 at Sandy Lane.

Carlton had the first opportunity as Tyler Blake ran onto Daniel Fletcher’s clearance, and slowly pulled away from Max Pemberton, before the forward saw his stroked attempt blocked by David Reay.

Aaron Opoku then saw a drive towards goal, thanks to good movement from the left, held low by Reay before Worksop were forced into replacing Niall Smith after a suspected break to his collarbone.

On the half-hour, Craig Mitchell struck the post as the forward fired Steve McDonnell’s wayward header onto the frame of goal on the slide, in what was to prove critical moment in the match.

In the second period, Deegan Atherton saw a volley from the right flash wide of the upright following a giveand-go with Jack Brownell as the home side went in search of an opener.

With the game looking like it was heading for a draw, Ball broke the stalemate as he steered an 86th minute header into the top corner to cause heartbreak for the Tigers. –

This was a controversial moment as Worksop fans felt he shouldn’t have been on the field following a stamp on Danny Patterson moments before giving the visitors the lead.

Thomas then forced another save out of Reay but ultimately, who had a good game between the sticks.

But despite the narrow margins, Carlton Town saw the game out to remain league leaders, although Leek Town have a game in hand in second place.

By Devon Cash PICTURE: John Bradley SANDWICH: Aaron Opoku runs through Worksop defenders Niall Smith and Steve Wankiewicz HEADS UP: Martin Ball scores Carlton’s late winner and celebrates, inset right, as Worksop’s Steve Wankiewicz challenges Tyler Blake