by John Hopkins
MORE than 400 spectators took advantage of the Non-League Saturday Special at The Hive Arena as Warrington Rylands lost 0 – 3 to promotion-chasing Worksop Town.
Worksop, sitting comfortably in a play-off position behind run-away side Macclesfield, were still within a mathematical chance of catching the leaders prior to this match but the win against Bamber Bridge means that Robbie Savage’s side have now taken the crown.
The Tigers opened the scoring from the penalty spot after 25 minutes, Luke Pilling coming very close to making another of his amazing saves. Just eight minutes later Liam Hughes found himself unchallenged in front of goal, beating Pilling for the second time as The Rylands defence appeared to be waiting for the referee to award them a free kick.
Manager Neil Reynolds said they were prepared for this match and that he and Lewis Hardcastle had repeated the tactics before the match. Sadly, the game didn’t go to plan against a very physical Worksop and for the first 20 minutes “… everything we had planned not to do, we did.”
Jake Daniels
Rylands gave a better account of themselves after this and had a few chances of their own, but there were too many high clearances upfield against a side that possibly has the tallest players in this league.
The defeat “stings a bit but we have to congratulate the opposition” says Reno.
“We move on, dust ourselves down and prepare for three big games, Southport (Liverpool Senior Cup), Ilkeston and Guiseley.”
“We’re not going to fizzle out for the rest of this season – we will try to win every game.”
Next up will be a Tuesday evening trip to National League North side Southport in the Liverpool FA Senior Cup.
“We’ve enjoyed playing National League North sides this year so hopefully we can come home with another win.
Reno is already building his squad ready for next season and many of the present players have re-signed, such is the camaraderie and belief of this club.
Captain James Neild
