Comment

Stourbridge FC gave their play-off hopes a real shot in the arm after defeating promotion rivals Chasetown in an all-action affair at the War Memorial Ground on Tuesday evening.

Games between the two local rivals are usually tasty affairs and this one was no exception as the Glassboys ran-out 2-1 winners.

The match started at a terrific pace and it was the Scholars that went closest to scoring in the early stages, after striker Dean Perrow saw his shot re-bound off the post before seeing another effort saved by Lewis Solly.

The hosts weathered the storm and went ahead after a quick free-kick by Damien Whitcombe found James Dyson, who slotted the ball through to the excellent Sam Rock (pictured) to calmly find the net past a helpless Lee Evans.

The Glassboys were two-up shortly afterwards.

The FA Cup giant-killers were unable to deal with a Craig Slater cross and after a scramble in the six-yard box Nathan Bennett was on hand to head home.

The hosts were now in complete control and with temperatures heating up on the pitch and in the two dug-outs, they had the chance to extend their lead even further but Leon Broadhurst was denied by Evans and Rock saw his low shot cannon into the post.

The visitors came out strongly after the break but their hopes of getting back into the clash were hampered when sweeper Todd Perry was dismissed after receiving his second caution of the evening for bringing down the livewire Rock.

The Scholars were able to give themselves a lifeline on 73 minutes when Danny Smith acrobatically beat Solly from eight-yards out.

With eight minutes to go Rock again proved to hot too handle as he broke clear, only for Chasetown defender Andy Penny to pull him back and leave the referee no choice but show him a straight red.

Stourbridge were still forced back but to the delight of the 273-strong crowd held out for a vital three points.

Manager Gary Hackett was pleased to pick up the win and heaped praise on his strike-force of Sam Rock and Lee Bullimore.

He said: "It was a real humdinger of a game, which is often the case when the two of us meet.

"It was a real big win for us over one of our play-off rivals but there's no doubt on the night the best side came out on top.

"It was great to see Sam get a goal because of late it hasn't really being happening for him.

"However, he was excellent against Chasetown and ran their big centre halves a merry dance all evening.

"Lee was also superb up there against his former club and hopefully we will see more of that from him for the remainder of the season."

The Glassboys are now set for a difficult Easter weekend as they go head-to- head against two more of their play-off rivals.

They travel to Aylesbury United on Saturday (kick-off 3pm), before welcoming Leamington and their large travelling support to Amblecote on Monday (kick-off 3pm).

Hackett will be down to the bare bones on Saturday with Damien Whitcombe and Lee Bullimore both unavailable and Gavin Whinsper suspended.

Added to this Ross Collins (calf strain) and Ryan Broadhurst (ankle) will be missing, although it is hoped the former will be back for Monday.

Hackett has drafted in Paul Moore as cover for the two games.

4:04pm Wednesday 19th March 2008

Print

Email this

Comment