Patient Lilywhites reap win reward

Mossley's Ryan Hopper beas Farsley's Luke Sharry to the ball.

MOSSLEY extended their lead at the top of Evo-Stik League Division One North to five points after a 2-1 victory over Ossett Town at Seel Park.

Steve Halford’s side had a good shout for a penalty with just three minutes on the clock as Lewis Nightingale tumbled over in the box, but appeals were waved away.

Leading goalscorer Kayde Coppin went close to breaking the deadlock half-way through the first period, only for his turn and shot to end up the wrong side of the post.

The visitors also threatened when Shane Kelsey’s curling free-kick clipped the outside of a post.

And home goalkeeper Martin Pearson did well to tip Keir Hannity’s powerful effort over the bar.

The away outfit were denied again early in the second half, Kelsey’s low header cleared off the line by Chris Brown.

But just after the hour mark Ossett’s Wes Milne missed a header and the ball fell kindly to Coppin.

The prolific hitman squared to Connor Loftus, who tapped in on his debut following a loan switch from Huddersfield Town.

With 20 minutes remaining the Lilywhites doubled their advantage. Loftus sent in a pinpoint delivery and Coppin sprung the offside trap before producing a fine finish.

Hannity nearly halved the deficit but Cavell Coo cleared off the line. Ossett did find the net in stoppage time, Kelsey’s shot finding its way through via a deflection, but the final whistle followed seconds later.

Halford said: “It was a good win against a decent side. We had to be patient because it was hard to break them down, but we plugged away and got there in the end.

"Connor Loftus had a good debut, especially considering the fact he has suffered with injury and illness of late.

“As happy as we are to be top of the table on Christmas Day, Skelmersdale are in second with six games in hand — although they still have to go out and win those games.

“Now we are looking forward to the Curzon Ashton game on Boxing Day which is a great derby for the fans.”

o CHADDERTON’S trip to Cheadle Town and Oldham Boro’s clash with Nelson in Vodkat North-West Counties League Division One were postponed due to waterlogged pitches.