VAUXHALL MOTORS 1 PADIHAM 0 – REPORT
FRIDAY 2ND DECEMBER 2022
NWCFL PREMIER DIVISION
THE VANEUPEN ARENA

A first-half Jordan Deer strike meant that Vauxhall Motors picked up all three points at The VanEupen Arena against Padiham on Friday night.

Despite a late goal from Lewis Buckley last time out, Vauxhall were defeated 2-1 at home to Avro. Thus, it was important that they got back to winning ways against a side who had won two of their past three.

There were few chances created in the opening half hour but Michael Burkey was proving to be a threat to the visitors backline with two shots that either deflected wide or were easily saved by keeper Matthew Hamnett.

The Motormen continued to be on top and a fantastic move between Lewis Buckley and Conor Harwood set up Jordan Deer in good range but his effort went far wide of the left post.

Despite missing, the midfield maestro’s belief in front of goal did not let up as his half-volley was smashed past Hamnett from the edge of the box moments later.

It was a fantastic strike and Mick McGraa’s team deserved to be in front.

In the second half, hosts keeper Matthew Corran, who had been selected ahead of James McClenaghan, was called into action when making a great save to deny a header.

Thomas Mitchell made a great clearance off the line shortly afterwards.

At the other end, substitute Sean Moscrop also saw an effort cleared off the line as The Motors aimed to extend the lead.

In the final stages of the ninety, Corran again proved his quality with a fantastic stop that ensured Vauxhall ended the night at the top of the NWCFL Premier table.

Vauxhall Motors are next in action on Tuesday night as they travel to Padiham’s Arbories Memorial Sports Ground.

Vauxhall Motors, managed by Mick McGraa: Matthew Corran, Ben Dufton-Kelly (86’), Liam Turner, Marcus James, Tom Mitchell, Aaron Dawson, Michael Burkey, Ben Holmes, Lewis Buckley, Jordan Deer (80’), Conor Harwood (69’). SUBS: Bobbie McDonnell (69’), Zak Catesby, Francois Antoine, Ethan Gouldbourne (86’), Sean Moscrop (80’).

Padiham, managed by Michael Morrison: Matthew Hamnett, Daniel Morton, Christopher Bailey, Jack Reynolds, Harli Dewhurst, Benjamin Hoskin, Jack Price, Lewis Richmond, Joel Brownhill, Joel Melia, Jack Gooden. SUBS USED: Kieran Sherlock, replacing Harli Dewhurst.