Leaders too strong for Springhead

FOOTBALL: SPRINGHEAD slipped into the bottom three of the FBT Manchester League Premier Division despite a battling display in a 2-1 defeat at leaders Prestwich Heys.

’Head started brightly and Ryan Fagan dragged an early shot wide, before a further effort deflected just over the crossbar.

Prestwich were often forced into a more direct approach, and came close to opening the scoring when Brad Lyons rattled the bar from 30 yards. ’Head were then indebted to Osman Bushara who saved well at the feet of the Heys forward as the home side got more into the game.

The second half saw ’Head take the lead when Ryan Hanson was upended in the box and Paul Stevenson converted the penalty-kick.

The game changed dramatically when straight from the kick-off, Heys attacked and were awarded a penalty after the ball struck Jonny Pauley’s arm.

The spot-kick was dispatched and after that harsh decision the momentum of the game changed.

Heys were now in the ascendancy as Bushara produced two more fine stops.

The hosts took the lead after 78 minutes when Johnson prodded home from close range.

’Head pushed for an equaliser and Brad Taylor was unfortunate with a fine drive with only moments remaining.

Meanwhile, Andrew Fulham scored all three goals for Division One high-fliers Uppermill as they stormed to a 3-1 win at Pennington.