Highley keeps lowly opposition at bay

Nostell ground out a result against Shirebrook on Saturday.

But the process by which they achieved it was sluggish and far from pretty.

Whilst Danny Highley’s early goal gave Miners the points, the game could have gone either way over the full 90 minutes.

Town forced a fine save from Sam Dobbs, who demonstrated his shot-stopping skills to keep Welfare ahead.

And skipper Dave Watts was awarded Man of the Match for his heroics inside the penalty area.

But Miners also threatened at the other end without finding the back the net.

Fran Johnson worked tirelessly leading the line.

And Craig Stephens found himself chasing long, hopeful punts that would have been more productively executed along the ground.

That said, with Highley slotting in behind the front two and ahead of the midfield, Nostell effectively had the benefit of a spare man.

And his recently adopted role paid dividends when he was on hand at close range to slot home Barry Rankin’s 20-yard strike.

The winger’s speculative effort was heading through a sea of players but losing its momentum before Highley diverted it past the keeper.

Apart from that, the ex-pro was often found wanting.

And with this formation, it is important to play balls to feet.

Something that Miners have developed an aversion to since losing the Selby game late last month.

Strange really, when they have talent in abundance to deliver a more cultured style of play.

Their commitment is never in doubt.

But it is also important to maintain structure and organisation.

And for some reason this quite often goes out of the window.

If they can quickly find a solution and win their hatful of games in hand, then a respectable mid-table finish is on the cards come May.