Hesketh Casuals ‘B’ 3-2 Horwich RMI

Hesketh Casuals ‘B’ made hard work of claiming all three points against a spirited Horwich side. The game should have been over by half time given the number of chances the home side had, but Horwich twice drew level to set up a nervy last 10 minutes.
The first half started brightly for the home side with numerous chances including a good opportunity for Fellowes after he was put through by Parr. Sykes worked hard up front and held the ball up well for the midfielders to join in the attack. The deadlock was broken when Parr spotted Forshaw unmarked at the back post. His delicious cross picked out the full back who rushed into the open space and executed a fine half volley, placing the ball into the bottom corner with class. It was the right back’s first goal of what is turning out to the an impressive season.
Horwich equalised after some sloppy defending and non-existent marking and their striker found space to drive the ball confidently into the bottom corner. At half time the score was 1-1 and the manager ringed the changes, which included midfield dynamo Dave Walker. It was Walker who, with his first touch, fired Cassies back into the lead with a barnstorming 25 yard striker which left the keeper with no chance. Chances were a plenty in the next 20 minutes with Neil MacGregor and the impressive Matt Valentine both coming close, the former striking the bar with a powerful header.
Horwich took advantage of some hesitant defending to equalise again with 10 minutes to go when their striker poked the ball home from 6 yards. It was Casuals who had the last laugh as they held their nerve in the closing stages. The tireless Andy Walker clipped the ball over to the excellent Barry Fellowes who controlled and volleyed in one movement passed the despairing dive of the Horwich keeper to claim all three points.
Cassies continued their impressive form, recording their 7th win in the last 8 games. A tough trip to Lymm next week awaits, but Casuals go into the game with confidence on a high.
There were a number of candidates for man of the match, including the excellent Carl Forshaw but Barry Fellowes’ all round display and composure in front of goal in the final stages secured the vote.