A SHIFT up front for Cedric Krou proved a Jim Gannon masterstroke in a 10th straight win for Vics.

After Farsley's Lewis Nightingale scored a second-half equaliser to Stuart Cook's penalty opener, Gannon shunted defensive midfielder Krou up field and his 75th-minute winner at Throstle Nest Stadium saw Northwich open up a six-point lead at the summit of Evo-Stik Division One North.

Vics created early chances, with Cook's 22-yard free kick being beaten out by keeper Tommy Taylor and full debutant Ryan Astles having a half-volleyed effort ruled out for offside.

Aiden Savory's shot over the bar from distance was Farsley's only threat before impressive Jordan Williams' trademark dribble into the box was stopped illegally by Aaron Hardy and Cook sent Taylor the wrong way from the spot.

An opportunity went begging when another sizzling run by Williams laid on Iain Howard but his free-hit was scuffed.

That wastefulness proved costly three minutes after the restart when home captain Robbie O’Brien played in Nightingale, who slotted past Mason Springthorpe from seven yards.

With tails high, a Paul Walker free kick flew through the wall and forced a good save from Springthorpe.

Vics continued to probe though, Astles volleying narrowly over from a Williams knock-down of Cook's free kick.

As the game became scrappy Gannon made his move with Krou and Vics started to take control.

It was from another Williams cross that Krou steered home the winner at the front post.

Vics Springthorpe (GK), Ali, Duxbury, Astles, Krou (Todd 88), Clarke, Ball, Cook, Bennett (Byrne 68), Howard (Spencer 90), Williams Subs not used McCoy (GK), Welsby

Attendance 130