DANIEL Johnson and Sam Fitton both scored their first goals for Northwich Victoria when they ended an eight-match sequence without a league win on Saturday.

It is also a maiden success for new manager Steve Wilkes, who replaced Paul Moore in the dugout last month.

The visitors were worthy victors against in-form hosts too, and took the lead just short of the hour when left-back Johnson, making his debut, met Johnny Gorman’s pass with a powerful connection.

Goalkeeper Lee White got a touch, but could not prevent the ball from crossing the line.

Vics might have doubled their lead when Gorman was sent clear by another new recruit, attacker Oscar Durnin, but the opportunity was missed when he tried to dribble around White rather than pass to a better-placed teammate.

Gorman then cursed his luck when his attempt from the edge of the penalty area struck an upright.

The visitors made safe the points their display deserved with nine minutes left.

Fitton’s finish was clinical after Brian Matthews delivered a measured assist from the right, stroking the ball between White’s legs.

Irlam were denied a consolation in the last minute when substitute Daniel McDonnell headed clear fellow replacement Andre Stewart’s effort from on the goal-line.

There had been less goalmouth action in the opening period, and front man Jordan Icely swept wide for the home team.

Fitton did likewise at the other end, while Durnin at least prompted White to make a save after leading scorer Matthews had laid off.

Irlam | White (GK), Harewood, Holt, Morrison, Mills, Ledson, Perry, Illidge (Hughes 68), Icely, Eyres (Cassell 68), Greene (Stewart 46) Subs not used Hughes, Mooney

Vics | Donlon (GK), Grant (McDonnell 59), Weston, Lawrence, Johnson, Willis, Bennett (Marshall 79), Fitton, Gorman (Gyimah 84), Durnin, Matthews Subs not used Lawton, Pollard Goals Johnson 58, Fitton 81

Attendance 75

Match report by Jamie Dewsbury