DENIS Underwood's Great Harwood came away from high-flying Salford City without the point their performance richly deserved.
The Showground side turned in a spirited display but had nothing to show for it as Tony Carroll's 35th minute strike separated the sides.
Salford, third in NWCL Division One, played an hour of the game with just 10 men after Paul Walker was brought down on the edge of the area with just the keeper to beat.
Walker, who had a lively game up front, was denied by the Salford keeper in the opening 10 minutes.
James Coonan also went close with a long shot midway through the half.
However, 10 minutes before the break, Great Harwood were caught on the break and Salford's full back was allowed to run the length of the pitch and Carroll drilled home his cross.
After the break, Great Harwood continued to press forward and came close to grabbing a late equaliser but Graham Lightbown's firmly struck shot was well saved.
Underwood said: "I was very pleased with the performance but I think we deserved to come away with at least a point.
"It was frustrating when they went down to 10 men because Paul was clean through and would have scored. I would have preferred the goal rather than a free kick and Salford getting a player sent off."
Sean Bursnell limped off with a calf strain before half time and will be a doubt for tonight's crucial match against fellow strugglers Maine Road tonight. However, Kieron Keigher should be available.
SALFORD CITY...1 GREAT HARWOOD...0
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