NAILERS TEN HOLD FIRM TO KEEP FINE RUN GOING
BELPER Town extended their unbeaten run to nine games as they ran out winners despite playing the final 30 minutes with just ten men in their victory over Spalding United.
The visitors stormed into an early lead with debutant James Carvell scoring with a low shot from 15 yards.
The Nailers extended their lead when Phil Watt scored from a 12th-minute corner kick, completing the perfect start for the visitors.
Spalding recovered well from their early setback and the game swung their way after Gianlucca Bucci tucked the ball in at the far post via a deflection from Sam Wright.
The Tulips were on top for the remainder of the half and might have equalised when Tobias Liversedge struck the crossbar and Jack Smith forced Ryan Musselwhite into a fine save.
Spalding had a great chance to level the scores on 47 minutes when they were awarded a penalty but Jamie Jackson’s spot-kick was saved by Musselwhite, a moment that proved pivotal come the finale.
The Nailers then lost Wright for a second yellow card but Belper dug in deep and frustrated Spalding’s efforts to equalise.
Alex Peterson squandered a good opportunity to take the ball around Tulips keeper Michael Duggan, with the chance going begging.
Belper dashed any hopes the hosts had by adding a third goal in the 81st minute when skipper Danny South turned the ball into the path of Watt who drilled the ball home for his second goal and gave the visitors a vital away victory.
STAR MAN: Phil Watt (Belper) ENTERTAINMENT: ★★★★★