This Is Cheshire

Town's spirited fightback just comes up short

From the Guardian Series, first published Thursday 19th Aug 2004.

NANTWICH Town came close to salvaging a point in their NWC Division One opener at Ramsbottom United, last Saturday.

Two goals down after 30 minutes, the Dabbers were heading for embarrassment but a big improvement in the second half almost earned its reward.

Ewan Purcell gave the home side plenty to cheer about with a 12th minute goal and Morley put them firmly in control via his head on the half-hour mark.

However half-time substitute Dale Melling led the fightback after the break and Nantwich were back in it on 58 minutes when Ashley Lawton converted Danny Griggs' low cross.

Ramsbottom restored control as Saunders punished a defensive slip on 70 minutes but the Dabbers didn't give up and were boosted when keeper Danny Read denied Denning from the spot.

Player boss Steve Davis threw himself on upfront and initially going on the back post, he netted Michael Owen's flick-on on 88 minutes to spark a frenzied finish.

Although the hosts hung on, Davis was pleased with his side's spirit after a poor first 45.

"To be honest we ran out of time," he said.

"We were left with a mountain to climb after going 2-0 down so early and they were the better side in the first half.

"Once we concede, our heads tend to drop and although we're a young side, we need to cut that out.

"Dale Melling came on and changed the game really.

"I was pleased with our attitude in the second half and there were plenty of positives to take from that."

Although set to sign an experienced keeper, Davis paid tribute to Reid after a decent debut.

"Danny didn't have a chance with any of the goals," he explained.

"He did well and he's a young lad with a lot of potential but we are looking to bring in a more experienced keeper.

"We're also going to Wales to look at a striker this week.

"We need a presence up there, an experienced big striker that can take a bit of pressure off Danny Griggs and Ashley."

Nantwich entertain Colne FC on Saturday, KO 3pm.

The Dabbers crashed 2-0 to Stone Dominoes at Jackson Avenue on Tuesday night. Smith scored on 30 mins, Shaw wrapped it up ten minutes from time.

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