Match of the day

Hollinwood's Mark Pyatt (left) is challenged by Woodley's Lewis Graham

Woodley Sports reserves 0, Hollinwood 3
HOW times change. Hollinwood’s latest victory saw them climb to 10th place in the Bridgewater Office Supplies Manchester League Division One table.

Who would have thought, just a few weeks ago after an 11-3 drubbing at the hands of Leigh Athletic — when three Hollinwood players were sent off — that the club's fortunes could change so dramatically?

The star of this latest Hollinwood production was Matt Simpson, who bagged all three of his side’s goals.

Victory over Woodley means it is now five wins on the bounce for Fred Hardicre's side since what was arguably one of the darkest days in Hollinwood's history.

Hardicre said: "We have come a long way since then and it goes to show just what you can do with a settled side.

"This is a young squad of players whose various commitments have meant that they can't always be available to play on Saturdays.

"Just recently we have managed to field a settled team and I am not surprised that the results have been going our way.

"I really did not want the Christmas break because I thought we might lose momentum, but full marks to everyone for achieving what we have done so far.

"Yes, they are young lads but there is quality here and it is pleasing that they are learning all the time."

Simpson set Hollinwood on their way when he converted a Jermaine Soberi corner from close range with five minutes of the first half remaining.

Hardicre's resurgent troops had the warm scent of victory in their nostrils on a cold afternoon in Cheshire, when Simpson was on hand to convert a 67th minute penalty.

And it was treble time for Simpson when his alertness in the opposition penalty area allowed him to capitalise on a poor clearance from the Woodley goalkeeper with seven minutes to go.

It is a little late in the day as far as this season is concerned but, if Hollinwood can maintain this form, who can rule out a return to the top flight in the next campaign.

Remember, though, that the word 'if' is one of the shortest words in the English language but one of the biggest in football.

And feet-on-the-ground Hardicre isn't getting carried away just yet.

He added: "There is a long way to go yet.

“But at least we now have something to build on."

HOLLINWOOD: Gerrard, Nelson, Brown, Hardicre, Osbourne, Watt, Soberi, Green, Pyatt, Abreu, Simpson. Subs: Buckley, Boumba.