Town went into their third match of the season by making the short journey to Newton Sports - home of Newton-le -Willows FC. After starting the season with 4 points from the opening two away fixtures, the Blues could be forgiven for a feeling of optimism. Town started brightly and captain Liam Diggle came close to scoring on two occasions.
It would be U23 graduates Marc Gibson and Charlie Leech that would eventually unlock the Newton defence, with respective goals in the 36th and 41st minutes. Much to the delight of the 40 odd travelling Town supporters.
In the second half Newton with the Crow Lane wind at their backs would test the St Helens defence, playing more direct football. However, Town held on for the 3 points. Man of the match fell again to Liam Beech - the terrier midfielder put in another fearless display.
St Helens Town continued their excellent start to their campaign with a hard-fought 2-3 victory at Warrington Rylands Development. Town started strongly, with Ian Roby playing a precise through ball for captain Liam Diggle to run on to, finishing hard and low inside the far post. They soon created several more chances, but were a little wasteful in possession in their eagerness to score more.
Rylands hit back with two in quick succession, including a free header at the back post from a corner. The half time whistle was welcome for the Town travelling support, again numbering about 40.
The St. Helens lads were much more controlled in the second half, demonstrating calmness with their competitive spirit. Marc Gibson headed home from a corner, then another telling pass from Ian Roby released Charlie Leech, who finished coolly. Paul Watson impressed off the bench and was awarded man of the match.
The result put Town top of the table, unbeaten with 10 points from a potential 12. Having played all four of their games so far away, this puts them in a good position for tests to come.
Photo, Charlie Simpson and Ian Roby away to Warrington Rylands Development
Credit: Mary Castrogiovanni