BARNTON scored a goal either side of half-time to secure a win at Squires Gate on Saturday – their first in the league for two months.

Both sides created chances in the first half, with the Villagers’ goalkeeper Matthew Conkie drawing praise for saves to deny Ben Seears and then Brett Dawson.

Meanwhile at the other end Jason McShane’s attempt prompted the hosts’ custodian Ben Fletcher to produce a fine stop.

The visitors took the lead shortly before the break when Chris Smith kept calm to lob Fletcher after running on to Sam Houghton’s through-ball.

Barnton’s leading marksman brought the best from Fletcher in the second half, while Dawson shot into the side-netting from a narrow angle at the other end.

The Villagers secured maximum points with six minutes left when Jonny Jones, sent clear by Jason McShane, lifted a smart finish over a stranded Fletcher.

“It’s an overdue three points,” reflected manager Steve Lloyd afterwards.

“We needed them, and the important thing is to maintain the momentum it’s given us.

“Every game is an important one, and we can’t get carried away by one win.

“However it has made us hungry to get the next one as quickly as possible.”

They have a chance to do exactly that on Thursday when they head to neighbours Winsford United for a Mid-Cheshire District FA Senior Cup tie, kick off 7.45pm.

A trip to Darwen follows on Saturday.

Gate | Fletcher (GK), Andrew Richards, Carroll, Alexander, Bamba, Hall, Thornber (Buchan 79), Ben Seear (Stayte 68), Riley (Tanser 87), Dawson, Richard Seear Subs not used Higham, Noblet

Barnton | Conkie (GK), Callum Richards, Crofts, Baker, McKay, James McShane, Jones, Houghton, Smith, Jason McShane, Vaughan Subs not used Meadowcroft, Aidley, Bandell, Sanders Goals Smith 45, Jones 84

Attendance 60