Nostell came up against one of the league’s big hitters on Saturday, Heanor Town announcing the signing of ex-pro Matt Richards before the game. The difference in class was evident from early in the game but the Welfare lads did work extremely hard throughout the game and managed to keep the score line looking respectable.
Nostell had the first chance in the very first minute when Matt Semley passed to Jermaine Moyce but his shot was saved by Heanor keeper Ian Deakin. Ben Saynor in the Welfare goal was called upon to keep his team in the game, making saves from Courey Grantham, Gary Ricketts and Kieron Debrouwer. Town took the lead after 31minutes, Ricketts converting at the far post following a cross from the right flank. The lead was doubled five minutes later when midfielder Sam Jones through ball caught the Nostell defence flat footed to allow Matt Richards to score. The third goal had an element of luck, Mark Stryzewiski converting after a scramble in the Welfare box after a free-kick on 42 minutes
Half-time 0 : 3.
The second half could have turned into an embarrassment but Nostell continued to work hard to deny Heanor time and space, Town also took their foot off the gas a certain amount. Nostell had the better of the chances in the second period. Man of the Match Brandon Kane long ball to Chris Cornelly was met with power first time but Deakin was equal to it. Lee Winslow had another shot for Nostell but went just over the bar. The Welfare did get the ball in the net after a fine move involving Kane and Semley, setting up Moyce to tap home but the linesman ruled it out. Kane had a tremendous left foot curler that was heading for the top corner but keeper Deakin pulled off a fantastic save. Winslow then provided another chance for Moyce but once again Deakin denied Nostell.
A reasonable hard working performance from the young Nostell team but very much a case of the “have’s” and “have not’s” the gulf in the respective budget evident has Heanor continue their efforts to win the title.