Winsford United 2

Eastwood Town 3

UniBond Division One

Saturday, March 17

AFTER two excellent away victories, this was a hugely disappointing performance in front of their own supporters, as Winsford's bad home form continued.

For years now, United have consistently played better away from home, which only adds credence to the views of those who think a move away from Barton Stadium would be beneficial.

Blues were sucked into playing the long ball game to which Eastwood's collection of giants excelled in combating.

Both sides enjoyed early chances. One of Blues' youngsters Stuart Tulloch found himself in acres of space after receiving a pass from Mike Scully, but he headed weakly into the arms of visiting goalkeeper Richard Parkin.

At the other end, Matthew Conkie, returning to the side after breaking his wrist against Witton on Boxing Day, had to pull off two good saves from Nigel Henstock and the giant of all the giants, Mark Smith.

Eastwood took the lead on 36 minutes. New signing Adrian Riley appeared to slip, leaving Phil Bagnall in the clear and he easily despatched the ball past Conkie.

Five minutes later, however, United managed to level when Scully cleverly found Jon Edwards, who in turn set up Danny Worthington for his 17th goal of the season, shooting home from 15 yards.

One would have thought this would have set things up nicely for Winsford in the second half, but if anything they got worse.

Eastwood deserved to take the lead again on 71 minutes, but it was tough on Winsford. A David Mayes shot appeared to have been handled by a visiting defender but penalty appeals were turned down.

An immediate long clearance led to Smith beating Chris Pollitt before directing a low shot into the net.

Eastwood then made the points safe when Kris Katylo bundled the ball over the line from a corner on 82 minutes.

It least it looked safe, but two minutes later Worthington drove home a loose ball for goal number 18 and the striker had a great chance to complete a hat-trick and rescue a point when he shot wide on 90 minutes.