Dale Park 2-1 Epworth Town

Dale Park kept their 100% season record in tact and ended Epworth's after a hard fought and controversial win at Winterton, with Nick Wingates late winner deciding the game. In the first half chances were limited and only Artor Johnsons rebound after a powerful Wingate throw in was a decent chance. At the other end Finney was rarely tested as Dale Park held firm at the back. The game livened up after the break, Lewis Clark went close and Epworth forced Ash Finney in to a number of good saves and catches. However with ten minutes to go it looked as if Dale Park had thrown a point when poor marking allowed Epworths captain to head home from a corner. Dale Park then raised the tempo and after Clark was kicked in the face by a defender a penalty was awarded(a good decision from referee Paul Clixby). Some of the Epworth players and fans were unhappy at this decision but there was no doubt it was a clear foul. However Clark still weary and groggy sent the spot kick just over the bar. With the touchline debate still heated, on the pitch Park continued to pressure and after nice build up by Lacey-Hatton, Brown and Rhodes, a superb cross was met by Clark who was unlucky to hit the post. However straight after that a long throw in by Wingate was flicked on and turned into the net by a Epworth defender. Although Epworth looked like they could respond a swift Dale Park counter attack allowed Wingate to break forward. Wingate looked for Clark in the middle but his cross was caught in the wind and lobbed the keeper to make it 2-1 with 5 minutes to go. The goal sparked wild celebrations both on and off the pitch, which again upset some of the Epworth coaches. Dale Park then held out for the last few minutes to claim a memorable victory and send us top of the league.
Wingate was man of the match.
Well done as well to P.Clixby who kept his head well despite some tough words from the touchline.
Dale Park team: Finney, Spencer, Lacey-Hatton, Reeder, Clixby, Johnson(Harvey), Wingate, Ingham, Rhodes, Clark, Durnian(Brown)
unused sub : Merrel

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