Grappenhall Sports 2 Tarporley Victoria 1

GRAPPENHALL made it 16 points from a possible 18 with a hard-fought win over Tarporley in League One of the Cheshire League on Saturday.

A double from Jordan Rigby put the hosts 2-0 up, a lead that proved enough despite a late Tarporley reply.

It took just eight minutes for them to make a breakthrough when a fine Dan Sisson pass was latched on to by the in-form Rigby, who rounded the keeper to slot home with his weaker right foot.

The game continued with Tarporley having more possession, though Sports looked dangerous, until the 32nd minute when the referee had to leave the field with a muscle injury.

Fortunately, a qualified replacement was watching the match, and stepped in after a break in play.

After the restart, Sports made it two when a fine move involving Matt Ball, Tom Swann and Denico Walters ended with the latter's cross being tapped home by Rigby.

Tarporley started with more tempo than they ended the first half, causing Sports problems with a series of long throws and corners.

Eventually the pressure told on 58 minutes when lively centre forward Joe Marley kept his cool in a busy box to make it 2-1.

Sports saw the final moments through more comfortably than the previous 20 minutes, holding on for a vital three points.

“We had to work hard for the win,” said manager Darren Davies afterwards.

“Tarporley caused us problems but for the majority we stood up well, especially having an outfield player in goal!

“Going forward our football was sharp and bright and we looked a threat all game.

“It’s a really good three points for us and continues our very good home form this season.”

They host Penlake this Saturday, kick off 2pm.