NELSON once again proved they can match any of the top sides in the North West Counties Second Division as they saw off title challengers Stone Dominoes at Victoria Park.

In truth, the visitors never showed any of their promotion potential and Nelson were able to size up the opposition in an uneventful first half.

And the Blues got a grip of the game after the break, although the hard surface hampered both sides.

The breakthrough came after 61 minutes when Nelson were awarded a free kick 25 yards out and Danny Whittaker surprised goalkeeper Chris Williams with a powerful shot which nestled in the bottom corner to put the home side in front.

Even at that stage, Stone had failed to exert any real pressure, although Nelson were relieved to see Colin Fletcher head wide after goalkeeper Billy Carrington had collided with Whittaker in the 18-yard box.

The result was put beyond doubt after 72 minutes when the Blues won another free kick 30 yards out. Scott Bradley tested the Stone stopper with a speculative drive and, under pressure from Whittaker, Williams spilled the ball into his own net.

After that, Nelson looked comfortable and were never in danger of losing their two-goal cushion.

NELSON ...2 STONE DOMINOES ...0