Leaders too strong (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Leaders too strong

Lydney Tn 4, Bourton Rvrs 1

UNBEATEN Lydney Town proved just why there is such a difference between themselves and the rest of the Northern Senior League as they strutted to victory against third-placed Bourton.

Other than a 15-minute spell at the end of the first half when the visitors got their heckles up and Matthew Winter scored a stunning dipping volley from nearly 40 yards, it was a sunny stroll in the park for the champions-elect.

Rovers, who harboured a lingering opportunity of snatching the runners-up spot going into the game, were frankly disappointing and the first 15 minutes saw them torn apart down both flanks.

However, some scrambled defending and the underside of the crossbar just about kept the Severnsiders at bay.

When a craftily won penalty, conceded under challenge from Ben Acock, was converted and then a near-post corner wasn't cleared and smashed home from close-in, it looked like Bourton would be in for the sort of torrid afternoon they had endured during their four-goal reverse in the previous meeting.

Winter's goal, though, sparked some life and, with the returning Duncan Habbitts hooking a volley on the turn just over and then forcing the goalkeeper to save low with his feet, they began to ruffle their high-flying hosts.

Any frayed Lydney nerves were settled. though, when Acock struggled to clear from under his own crossbar allowing a close-range third.

The fourth goal followed with a swift break down the left flank that led to a pull back for an unmarked midfielder to crash a first-time drive past a despairing Andrew Herbert.

Bourton have four games remaining and are already assured of their highest-ever Northern Senior League finish.

But, with manager Tony Spedding back at the helm after competing in an ultra-distance 100K race, they will be looking to return to form against relegation-threatened Chalford on Saturday.