RANGERS UN-LOCK VICTORY!
STAFFORD Rangers brought Matlock Town’s winning run to a halt scoring each side of half-time to give them a 2-0 victory.
Matlock had started the season with five wins on the bounce and flying high in the Northern Premier before visiting Marston Road.
In contrast the Boro came into the tie looking to boost their position in the table after a disappointing mid-week defeat against Hyde United.
Despite the Gladiators having the form it was the hosts who started brightly and Joe Cuff had an early opening for the hosts but saw his effort saved by the goalkeeper.
The Boro were looking the stronger team in the early exchanges and Joe Kenton was next to test the palms of goalkeeper Rowley.
Cuff was causing the visitors problems and sent an inviting free-kick to the back post but a Boro shirt failed to meet his cross.
At the opposite end Matlock showed their danger on the 36th minute with Alex Byrne sending a freekick just over the bar.
Two minutes later Byrne went close again sending an effort just wide of the posts as the visitors probed for an opening goal.
However, it was Rangers who took a 42nd minute lead with Cuff opening up the defence before finding Kenton to fire his side ahead.
Despite a half-time talking to, the Derbyshire visitors faced an uphill task in front of a crowd of 520 fans including a decent traveling contingent.
Their task was made harder early in the second half when Tom Tonks doubled the home side’s advantage to give Rangers an unlikely 2-0 lead.
The hosts were in charge of the tie and a good run by substitute Luca Navarro released Jake Charles who sent his effort straight at the goalkeeper.
Despite the Boro looking in control of the tie goalkeeper Luke Piling was forced into action.
Moments later Luke Chippendale had the ball in the net for Matlock, only for his effort to be disallowed for an earlier foul on the hosts goalkeeper.
The defeat for Matlock means that South Shields are in pole position in the Northern Premier moving two points clear of the Derbyshire side after the opening nine matches.