BARB FC 2 AFC BLACKPOOL 0

BACUP & Rossendale Borough finally recorded their second win of the season in a deserved 2-0 win at home to AFC Blackpool after a brace from on-loan Halifax Town striker Dominic Marie.

A goal in either half from Marie saw off the seasiders in a terrific performance from the Borough and, a much needed three points on Valentine’s Day.

Manager Brent Peters made just the one change to the side that lost to Squires Gate last week as goalkeeper Josh Harris came in to make his debut.

Bacup got off to a better start in their first home game of 2015, with Simon Thompson going close. Then in the 23rd minute Daniel Holt had a 25-yard shot blocked and Michael Gervin narrowly missed the target with the follow-up.

But, after another chance went begging - for Daniel Holt this time - the home side did eventually take the lead when Dominic Marie picked up the ball on the left and cut inside to fire in a deflected shot.

Both teams knew the next goal would be crucial in coming out for the second half, and it was Borough who went the closest to doubling their tally before the hour.

A lovely chipped ball from Holt found Thompson on the right, he flicked the ball over a Tangerine defender and drilled in a teasing low cross which Marie was a whisker away of turning past the keeper.

AFC Blackpool pushed for the equaliser but never really looked like scoring and did not test Harris. However, when the debutant goalkeeper was called upon he made some terrific catches from crosses and set-pieces.

The Bacup back-line also put in a tremendous shift.

And their efforts paid off with 14 minutes to go as Peters’ side scored their second to seal the win. And what a goal it was too Marie started the move, played a nice one-two with Matty Bryan down the left, and when the ball dropped to Gervin on the edge of the box, he threaded an exquisite through ball to Marie. The striker was composed, faked his shot, cut inside and blasted into the top corner to send the home bench wild.