Trafford 0
Radcliffe Boro 1
RADCLIFFE Borough secured a play-off place with a hard-earned, but deserved victory at Trafford on Tuesday night.
Boro, and Eamon Elliott's frustration at having a first half 'goal' ruled out by a very dubious offside decision, were finally overcome when the little Irishman scored what proved to be the winning goal in the 67th minute.
With James Price still injured, Boro manager Kevin Glendon stuck by the side which lost to Spennymoor and he was rewarded with a committed performance on a bobbly pitch.
The early stages were dominated by Trafford, with Tom Beech twice breaking through, only to be denied by Danny Hurst.
Boro gradually took control with Jody Banim unable to finish when home goalkeeper, Ryan McMahon, spilled a through ball and Elliott and Richard Landon both going close with headers.
Elliott caused the Trafford defence problems with his runs into the penalty area and he thought he had broken the deadlock in the 32nd minute.
David Bean headed on a free-kick and Elliott darted through to beat McMahon. Boro's celerations were cut short though when they spotted the assistant referee's flag raised.
Boro's fortunes changed with the introduction of Lee Kissock in the 67th minute. The striking substitute made an instant impact, releasing Elliott with his first touch, and this time Elliott was not to be denied, firing home off a post.
The final whistle was greeted with sighs of relief, then cheers as the news filtered through that Leek had lost, effectively confirming Boro's place in the play-offs.
RADCLIFFE BOROUGH: Hurst 7, Battersby 6, Whealing 7, Landon 7, Bean 7, Dempsey 8, Elliott 8, S Wilson 8, Potter 6, Banim 6, G Wilson 8. Substitutes: Kissock (for Potter 67 mins) 7. Not used: E Kelly, Collins.
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