NELSON...2

DARWEN...1

MICK Molloy secured his first win as Nelson manager last night in a highly-charged derby at Victoria Park.

Nelson had not won a league game since beating Darwen at the Anchor on December 13, but took the lead after 17 minutes when Kevin Richardson's through ball was chased by Paul Barrett, who made no mistake with a good finish.

In a game where chances came thick and fast at both ends, Barrett almost increased Nelson's lead from Paul Fildes' lethal cross before Paul Baker had a golden chance to equalise from Steve Pickup's centre, but saw keeper Billy Carrington make a great save from his point-blank header on the half hour.

Nelson's introduction of Craig Bradshaw at half-time gave their attack fresh pace and the Blues striker hit a low left foot shot past to put his side two goals ahead after 56 minutes.

Darwen fought back strongly and Daniel Stubberfield pulled one back on 69 minutes when he finished a good Darwen build-up by shooting into the roof of the net.

Dennis Hill might have grabbed an equaliser after 84 minutes, but Nelson keeper Billy Carrington came out well to block the shot with his feet.