Report by John Hopkins
VIDEO: WARRINGTON Rylands moved to the top of the NPL Premier League after a two goals to one victory against Cleethorpes Town at the Myenergi Stadium.
Surprisingly their rise to the top spot came courtesy of local rivals Warrington Town’s 3-2 win against former league leaders Lancaster City, who saw an 11-game unbeaten run in the league come to an end at Cantilever Park.
Neil Reynold’s side took the lead a minute into half-time when Harrison Wood latched onto a Jake Burton pass to place it past Ollie Battersby in goal. However, their one-goal advantage was short-lived as Josh Walker’s diving header put the Owls back in contention just three minutes later, following some goalmouth pinball and an overhead kick. Rylands claimed he was offside but the goal remained despite their protests.
On the hour mark ‘Reno’ replaced Ben Hough and Jake Burton with Adam Caddick and Matt Regan. Regan, back in the squad after missing several matches following a head injury, scored the winner from a well placed corner within four minutes of his return.
Reynolds was able to rest a few players but praised the whole squad for their effort and determination against a good Cleethorpes side, with captain Dean Furman being picked out as an outstanding leader.
“We’ve missed Reegs,” Reno said “he does what he does best, not only does he score goals but he’s a monster for us – he’s a warrior and he deserves that goal.”
Warrington Rylands are back at The Quickline Logistics Arena on Tuesday evening when it is expected that Reynolds will once again field a young side against Pilkington FC in the Liverpool Senior Cup. Following that, on Saturday they are back to league action when they host Leek Town with a 3.00pm kick-off.
