ELLIS BAGS A DOUBLE AS PITMEN TRIUMPH

HEDNESFORD TOWN 3 BASFORD UNITED 1

BASFORD United suffered their fifth successive defeat as they lost at Hednesford, with the home side scoring twice in the second half.

Basford were second best for large parts of the game and Hednesford were deserved winners as they took the three points.

The game got off to an explosive start with two goals in the first nine minutes.

It set the scene as the hosts started like an express train, with Basford struggling to keep pace with the electric opening.

Shane Benjamin fired Hednesford ahead in the fourth minute following Ben Bailey's long throw, though Basford levelled five minutes later, James Reid's deflected shot looping in after good work by Matt Thornhill.

Shaun Harrad went close for Basford in what was an even first half.

However, the home side ramped up a gear to dominate the second period.

And with it put Basford firmly to the sword.

Jud Ellis restored their lead in the 49th minute, taking Benjamin’s pass to score with a low shot.

Ellis notched his second of the game after 64 minutes, finding the top corner with a shot from the edge of the box.

Basford's best effort came from Courey Grantham, who flashed a shot narrowly wide ten minutes from time.

STAR MAN: Jud Ellis (H’ford) ENTERTAINMENT: ★★★★★