DARWEN 2 CHADDERTON 1

MANAGER Steve Wilkes was forced to play himself and inspired his side to their first win in nine games in NWCL Division Two.

Wilkes, who had not played a full 90 minutes since last April set up the first goal with a half-volley that was parried by the keeper and knocked in by Neil Almond.

Chadderton equalised from the penalty spot in the second half but four minutes from time Andy Walsh headed in the winner. Wilkes gave 21-year-old Damien Stuart his debut and the winger impressed down the left.

But he gave a penalty away on 65 minutes, tripping the Chadderton player on the edge of the area after a free kick. Rick Wild scored.

But Stuart made amends in the 86th minute with a free kick which the keeper Tony Greenhalgh fumbled and Walsh headed in.