Tuesday 15th October

Euxton Villa extended their Macron Cup campaign with a 1-0 win over Bacup Borough. 

Joel Darley’s 91st minute goal from a penalty save rebound was all that separated the two sides at the Jim Fowler. 

Known for their tough competition, Villa knew a strong performance would be necessary against Bacup. 

And following their abandoned Macron Cup tie the following fortnight, an extra fixture against the East Lancashire side was guaranteed to be an interesting one. 

Early chances from Darley would force comfortable saves from their ‘keeper, and on the opposite side vital blocks from Jack Wyers-Roebuck provided the wall needed to prevent a Bacup attack. 

Plenty of opportunities for Villa to get their opener ensued, but ultimately a combination of saves and misjudged shots would keep the score level going into half time. 

Oliver Lombard would keep Villa in the game thanks to a few fantastic saves, as would Bacup’s ‘keeper. 

But as time ticked on the game intensified, tams fouls awarded to each team contributing to a rising sense of tension and determination. 

Ultimately, the 90th minute brought a twist in the tale; Matt Westwell being brought down in the box after a late challenge was all that was needed for the referee to point to the spot. 

Joel Darley stepped up and initially his penalty was saved, but the rebound was tapped in by him. 

Shortly after, the full time whistle blew and a 1-0 on home turf secured progression in the cup. 

We will face Colne at home on Tuesday 12th November for the second round of the Macron Cup.