A LONE second half strike from Ben Warder was enough to help Rylands end their four-match dry spell against Lostock Gralam at Gorsey Lane.

The hosts’ first win in five matches propelled them to seventh in the Cheshire Football League Division One and with a winnable game at Linotype Cheadle to come on Saturday, manager Dave Parr is optimistic that his side have turned a corner after a difficult period in their season.

“I was very pleased with the lads commitment and attitude, particularly after the last few games when we have played reasonably well but had nothing to show in terms of points,” he said.

“The players who came in have done very well, it is important that the squad has strength in depth and that people are pushing for places.”

The hosts threatened throughout the match thanks to chances from Warden, new signing Craig Smith and Tebb, but it was in the second half in which Parr’s men really shone.

The introduction of Rodger and Ajayi after injuries to Smith and Walker gave the home side fresh impetus going forward and with 20 minutes remaining, they got the breakthrough their play deserved.

Sullivan, Duffy and Warder combined to send Warder clear on goal and the midfielder finished confidently from 12 yards out to stop Rylands’ rot.

Rylands: Moor, Parr, Howard, Tebb, Prescott, Duffy, Warder, Collard, Sullivan (Emery), Smith (Rodger), Walker (Ajayi). Sub not used: Anderson.