Worksop Town hold on for fine away win at Belper Town

The Tigers defied the heavy rain and strong, gusty winds of Storm Dennis on Saturday to hold on for a 2-1 win at third-placed Belper Town and end the hosts’ nine-match unbeaten run.

Winger Matthew Sykes, who made his return to Worksop from Yorkshire Amateur the previous Wednesday, struck a vital breakthrough 41st minute goal.

Freddie Tracey doubled the advantage in the 71st minute before the Nailers hit back nine minutes from time to set up a tense finish.

Jordan said: “It was an unbelievable result, but we were full value for it.

“We are not the biggest at the back but we dealt with their aerial threat and the ball into the big strikers’ feet. They were outstanding.”

A 12th minute save with the scoreline blank saw keeper Dave Reay deny George Milner and Jordan said that was vital. “It was a massive save. Then Pembo (Pemberton) made a brilliant tackle and it gave us a chance to get a foothold in the game.” he added.

“The players have turned a corner. They were brilliant against Chasetown the previous week and now outstanding in a real battle.”

After Reay’s crucial early save Sykes, who netted 32 goals last season, beat the keeper to the ball and cut in before curling home.

Reay repeated his heroics to tip away a Danny South looping header.

That proved vital when Steve McDonnell’s forceful run let him set up Tracey to double the lead. Former Tiger Charlie Dawes gave Belper hope, but Worksop hung on.