The Lions achieved their first win of the season and a clean sheet. This was a considerable improvement from previous games with a full 18-man squad that handed first appearances to Tom Rowe and Ian Durrant who provided much needed physical strength to the team.

The game was largely controlled by the Lions who maintained a solid formation. The defence was strong and positioned themselves well to earn that clean sheet. The midfield, marshalled by skipper Brad Highfield, battled and created many chances. All that was missing was a goal. Stockton The Penny Black defended well for most of the game. At times they threatened to score with some long direct balls to the wings that created chances that in form keeper, Richard Cass, had to make excellent saves.

The Lions were rewarded for their patience mid-way through the second half when Tom Johnson crossed from the left and Will Cowley expertly glanced a looping header into the top right-hand corner of the net. He could have had another when he directed a shot just wide of the post. At 1-0 the game was not won. Stockton The Penny Black had picked up some earlier injuries and appeared to tire under the pressure. The Lions second half subs brought additional energy to the game and paid dividends when Philip Cope got hold of a loose ball and shot from the edge of the box into the right corner 2-0.

The victory is a reward greatly appreciated after so many months of hard work to keep the club going in difficult times. A bright future now awaits the squad if they continue to play how they did today. Well done everyone!