Saturday 17th August
Euxton Villa extended their unbeaten run to five games with a 1-0 win over Bacup Borough.
A goal from Joel Darley following a rebound from penalty save was all that separated the two sides at the Brian Boys West View Stadium.
Bacup Borough were quickest off the mark, creating an early chance that ricocheted of the post.
But Villa came calling early on too; Dan Singleton’s shot being blocked after a great driving run from Joel Darley.
With increasing pressure for the home side, strong defensive performances from Cam Ross and Jack Wyers-Roebuck denied any potential danger from the attack.
As the first half drew to a close, a first time shot from Wyers-Roebuck was deflected for a corner following a cross from Aidan Tait.
The second half saw Villa come out the quickest; a tame shot from Darley setting up a good start for the visitors to continue creating pressure.
Fantastic work again in the 49th minute saw George Davies with a pass to Pat Bibby, but his left footed shot hit the goalkeeper easily.
In an end to end game of football, the majority of the second half was extremely competitive for both sides, both driving forward to find the opener.
But a penalty call from the referee in the 73rd minute seemingly handed Villa the perfect opportunity to take the lead.
Darley’s initial take was saved by Bacup’s Brooks, but the rebound was confidently put away by our attacker.
With just over 15 minutes to go, Euxton were determined to keep onto their lead, and looked to capitalise on that with huge penalty claim.
But with the referee waving the claim away, it was all about keeper Bacup at bay for the final few minutes.
They looked to find their equaliser, but it was ruled offside.
With an extended period of extra time, the full time whistle finally blew and Villa emerged victorious after a hard fought battle for the three points.
The win takes us up to 6th in the league, just one point above the opposition.
Man of the match deservedly went to Cam Ross, for his sublime performance in the back line.
We now look to a Friday night fixture in the Isuzu FA Vase, where we welcome Premier Division side Squires Gate to the Jim Fowler.