Ollerton make it a happy birthday for boss against Selston

Ollerton progressed to the next round of the Central Midlands League Challenge Cup on Saturday after they gave manager Dave Winter a perfect birthday present by defeating high-flying visitors Selston 1-0.

After a run of nine league games undefeated, Selston currently sit third in the South Division with plenty of games in hand on top spot and were probably the favourites going into the game.

However, a brilliant performance by Ollerton secured them a win as Paul Burgess’ header on 12 minutes was enough to separate the two sides.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

It was a tireless performance by Ollerton who never game Selston a minute, but Ollerton’s win was not secured by hard work alone.

Ollerton created the much better chances, especially in the first half, and could have been out of sight before the break.

Kyle Clarkson had Ollerton’s first chance, sending a long ranged effort towards goal which forced Selston’s Jake Ball into a strong save.

But Ball could do nothing about Ollerton’s goal as Clarkson sent in a corner to the far post where Paul Burgess was on hand to head in his second goal in as many games.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Ollerton kept pressing as Selston were unable to get into any real rhythm.

Craig Stanton and Tom Cooke missed strong chances from inside the area as both blasted their efforts over the bar. Jamie Charlton also came close on two occasions but Ball proved to be equal to his shots from the right hand side of the area.

As it was, Ollerton’s lead was only 1-0 going into the interval but the Town knew that if they could repeat their first half performance, they could easily hold on, or add to that lead.

In truth, the home side tired somewhat in the second half but never stopped running and pushing for a second, with a Jamie Charlton header and a Kye Pilmore long-range strike the most notable chances.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Selston were not without chances of their own and, especially in the later stages of the game, Ollerton keeper Simon Smith was called into action on several occasions.

However, Smith and his defence stood firm and were in particularly impressive when dealing the aerial bombardment which resulted from Selston’s many corners and free kicks late on.

Not only was this Ollerton’s second cup win in a row but also their second clean sheet and it’s now six wins in their last seven.

This great form is just what is required as they look to continue their climb up the Central Midlands North Division.

On the basis of Saturday, Ollerton will have no trouble improving on their current 12th place once they return to league action this weekend.

Related topics: