Hindsford 2 Pennington 1: AFTER an early pitch inspection Hindsford's Air Miles Manchester League First Division local derby with Pennington was given the go-ahead after some good work by the ground staff.

Hindsford started well and took an early lead after a clever turn and neat finish in the bottom corner by Mark Morris.

Hindsford continued to dominate possession, but could not convert any of the many chances created.

Pennington's only attack of the half, resulted in the equalising goal.

From a corner, some slack defending by Hindsford's Tony Brown allowed a free header, which gave goalkeeper Barry Edge little chance of saving.

The second half began as the first had finished, Hindsford in control but unable to find the net.

Hindsford did find the net midway through the half when a cross from Tony Brown was headed across goal by Dan Toone and Darren Briggs met the ball with a stunning volley only for the referee to rule the goal out for offside.

The referee then turned down a blatant penalty appeal, when Darren Briggs was brought down inside the area, and instead showed the yellow card to the Hindsford man of the match.

The winning goal came with only 10 minutes remaining. From a free kick almost 30 yards out, Ryan Willett stepped up to crack home the deserved winner which went in off the post.

Hindsford reserves maintained their 100 per cent record with a comfortable 4-0 victory at Royton. Johnny Morris was the star performer with a first half hat-trick.

Next Saturday the first team is at home to second placed Rochdale Sacred Heart and the seconds are away at Stand Athletic, kick offs 2.30pm.