Barwell 1 Stamford AFC 0

Report by Merv Nash

A superb individual goal in the 29th minute by Danny Newton, his seventh of the campaign gave Barwell a very hard earned win over Stamford, which lifts them to 10th in the league table. A solid start to the season for Jimmy Ginnelly's men. This vital win was built on a magnificent defensive performance by the "Canaries" helped by a competent display by Liam Castle in goal.

The opening exchanges were frantic with both sides eager to take control, the first half was absorbing but the lack of chances reflected on both sides who were struggling up front.

Scott Hadland shot over the bar for Barwell, former Barwell player Ryan Robbins was denied at close range by Castle as the visitors looked for the opening goal.

A goal would have been the least forward Newton deserved for a fine all round performance and when it came it was worthy of winning any game, dispossessing Stamford's skipper Richard Jones 30 yards from goal he sprinted away and unleashed a drive from the edge of the area that flashed past keepers Alex Lynch left hand and finished in the bottom corner of the net.

Stamford dominated the early stages of the second half with the wind behind them but Barwell held firm, Jordon Smith had a shot blocked by Castle, generally Barwell looked comfortable at the back with Guy Hadland, Jamie Hood and Rich Lavery winning almost everything that Stamford hoisted high into the area.

The nearest Stamford got to an equaliser came on 84 minutes when Andrew Burgess hit a perfect volley from distance that struck the outside of the post and went for a goal-kick.

At the final whistle Barwell were happy with another three points, keeping a clean sheet and giving a thoroughly professional performance.

The MIRA Man of the Match was awarded to Scott Lower for an excellent display.

Team: Liam Castle, Scott Lower, Connor Gudger, Guy Hadland, Jamie Hood, Kieron Brehon, Scott Hadland, Luke Barlone (Callum Earls 87), Jack Edwards (Dave Barnett 63), Danny Newton.
Subs not used: Oliver Brown-Hill, Leighton Simmonds

Goal: Newton 29

Attendance: 217

MIRA Man of the Match: Scott Lower