We were scheduled to visit the New Manor Ground to see Ilkeston FC take on Loughborough Dynamo, but after witnessing the reverse encounter, Pinxton v South Normanton Athletic was a local derby not to be missed. This fixture was originally set for Boxing Day, but was called off for some reason or other.
We decided to leave Hucknall a few minutes early so we could get a decent parking spot, and although there were a fair few cars already present, Kev parked us neatly by the side of the tennis courts. Just a short walk to the ground, and when we got to the gate, we were warmly welcomed by the Gents on duty, as per usual.
We managed to grab a minute with Pinxton joint Manager Kenny Shinfield as the players were warming up - he knew that a win was critical for his team. Three points would take them to within 2 points of Athletic with 2 games in hand. A loss would see the Welfare team 8 points adrift.
As it transpired, Pinxton were the only one of the top six to lose - Newark easing past Real Utd to leap above Pinxton who drop to 5th.
The game began at a ferocious pace, as all local derbies should - and Pinxton were unlucky no to take an early lead after a ball played in from the right caused mayhem in the Shiner's area. Unfortunately for the home team, no-one was able to get a toe to the ball and poke it home.
Pinxton no. 8 Sean Gregory tried his luck from long range in the fifth minute, but his effort flew just wide. Seconds later though, the home team were ahead, and what a goal it was - a real contender for goal of the season.
After a Normanton attack had broken down, the ball was cleared from the goal line and WAYNE COOKE controlled superbly, turned and ran - and ran - and ran, eventually ending up in the away area before firing a curler past keeper James Baker.
The goal certainly stirred thing up in the Shiners' camp, and they fought back hard, taking the game to their hosts. Centre forward Danny Brisco is one of the Shiners brightest stars, and he had a great chance on 21, but his run at goal was ended by Sam Rawson. His Welfare counterpart Jay Cooper was set free by Josh Parker soon after, but he over-ran the ball and the chance was lost.
Rawson had been superb at the heart of the home defence, but he in the 41st minute he fouled Brisco on the edge of the box. Referee Tim Walker waved play on after he saw that the loose ball had fallen kindly to STEVE O'CONNELL, who had the fairly simple task of rounding Dave O'Hare and slotting home. H-T 1-1
The home team came out fired up and were almost back in front on 49 when Gregory headed a Jones corner just over the bar. A defensive lapse then cost Pinxton dearly, as they allowed hit man ADAM NICHOLLS too much space 25 yards from goal, and the no. 10 unleashed a fierce drive that flew into the top corner of the net, with O'Hare grasping at thin air.
Nicholls gets a hug after putting the Shiners ahead!
Nicholls already has one nomination for goal of the season - his overhead volley in the reverse fixture. Now he has two!
Pinxton poured forward in an attempt to try and get something out of a game they didn't deserve to lose. Aaron Brady went close with a header, then Jones had a corner tipped over the bar by Baker just as it looked as if it was going straight in. Ryan Booker hit a spectacular shot for 20+ yards as the game entered added time, but Baker was alert and pushed the effort over the bar. The resultant corner was cleared and the home challenge ended when Mr. Walker blew the final whistle seconds later. F-T 1-2
Tough tackling, hard fought game - excellent local derby, although Pinxton probably deserved at least a point from the game. Danny Evans was superb throughout, and it is to be hoped the injury that ended his participation early, is not too serious.
Evans carried off by Sam Rawson and Joe Riley
Special mention for Referee Tim Walker. Cracking performance from the man in the middle - well done, Sir!!
Admission £2
Programme £1
Attendance - head counted over 120 - could have been more....my eyes aren't as good as they used to be!
