Gresley Rovers vs Clay Cross Miners Welfare
Gresley Rovers 3 - 1 Clay Cross & Danesmoor Miners Welfare
New signing James Wright was included in Gresley Rovers' side for their Central Alliance League game against Clay Cross & Danesmoor Miners Welfare at the Moat Ground on 9th January 1960.
The former Corby left-winger replaced Ron Mane playing in his best position of outside left.
Holland was at right half with Fitchett moving to inside left in place of Clive Mason who moved to the right wing.
Clay Cross had the Holmes, Eaton and Bradley brothers in their team.
The speedier Rovers had the edge on Clay Cross but despite constant attacks could not take the lead. Shots from Fitchett, Wright and Heath went narrowly wide and many opportunities were missed.
Clay Cross were rarely on the offensive and could not penetrate the strong Gresley defence and Rovers had clearly been on top in the first half and they looked set for a much needed home victory.
But they were in for a shock early in the second period when the visitors opened the scoring. A good centre from G Bradley found Furness and headed firmly past Heire.
Eight minutes later Rovers were level when they swarmed into the Clay Cross goalmouth and a shot rebounded back into play off the crossbar and in the ensuing melee Heath drove the ball home.
Three minutes later a long pass from Cashmore found Fitchett and he left the keeper helpless giving Rovers the lead.
The visitors' keeper left the field soon after with an injury he received during the melee when Rovers scored their first goal.
Still well in command Rovers added a further goal, Wright crossed the ball and Mason ran in and headed firmly past the deputy keeper K Bradley.
Rovers Star Man - Barry Fitchett
Rovers - Heire, Cashmore, Brews, Holland, Osman, Hallam, Mason, Heath, Thompson, Fitchett, Wright
Clay Cross - Walker, Carter, G Eaton, K Bradley, J Holmes, G Bradley, F Eaton, Furness, McJarrow, Wragg, Holmes
Gate receipts £9-14s
