Ebac Northern League Division Two

Whickham 0

Northallerton Town 2

FIRST HALF goals from Danny McLachlan and Aaron Ramsbottom sealed a second consecutive Northallerton Town victory last Saturday; the perfect start for new manager Steven Skinner.

After a dreadful run of results in October, Town are now unbeaten in November where they are yet to concede a goal. Skinner, who had named himself on the bench, saw his side start brightly and they were rewarded with a goal from McLachlan after just 13 minutes, following a left wing cross from Jason Brazauskas.

Town were then in complete control just eight minutes later when a stunning 25 yard half volley from Ramsbottom flew in off the underside of the crossbar.

Whickham worked hard to get back into the game before the break, but the Town defence stood firm and dealt with everything the hosts could throw at them. Meanwhile, at the other end, Stuart Owen saw a free kick from the edge of the area go just over the top as the first half drew to a close.

The second period began with controversy as Town captain Dale Elgie was sent-off for a late tackle. The Whickham goalkeeper was also booked for descent after rushing out of the area to remonstrate with the referee.

Whickham threw everything at Town after that but were unable to force a shot on target in the entire 90 minutes. New manager Skinner brought himself on in the closing stages and almost grabbed a goal; his lob well held by the Whickham 'keeper.

With five minutes to go, Whickham substitute Collins followed Elgie down the tunnel for a late tackle on Colin Anderson right in front of the Town dugout, leaving the referee with no alternative other than to issue another red card.

Town substitute Damon Reaks almost added a third when he shot into the side netting from an acute angle, while Owen just failed to connect with a Reaks' cross as the game went into stoppage time.

Overall it was another excellent defensive performance from Skinner's side which brought them the three points. Town are now up to 13th in the table.