Nelson back on top

NELSON returned to the top of the NWCL Division Two after a well-fought victory at rain-sodden Victory Park last night.

A swirling wind coupled with driving rain soon took its toll on the pitch with both sides failing to create any clear-cut chances during a torrid first half.

The best chance fell to Nelson after 35 minutes when Keiron Roberts through ball enabled striker Jon Irvine to race clear of the defence.

The visiting keeper was quick off his line though and saved well. Unfortunately, he came off badly in the challenge and had to be replaced shortly after.

The wind dropped in the second half and allowed the Blues to take a firm control of the game and eventually their pressure told on the hour mark.

A ball played out of the visiting defence found central defender Micky Charlton. With the opposition playing for offside, he took the ball to the halfway line and played a clever chip, which sent Scott Gizon clear.

He took the ball inside the box and unleashed an unstoppable shot which gave the replacement keeper no chance. It has taken his goal tally to eight for the season.

Nelson had several opportunities to make the game safe with Nigel Coates heading just over from a corner and Mark Robinson shooting just wide in the closing minutes.

But fortunately the one goal was all that was needed for another three points to be claimed.

With Darwen defeating Warrington, Nelson leapfrog both them and Blackpool Mechanics to the top of the table.