Northwich Victoria clear inflicted deficit against Workington (From Northwich Guardian)

Northwich Victoria clear inflicted deficit against Workington

6:35pm Monday 31st August 2009 in

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VICS came away from blustery West Cumbria with maximum points and thereby cleared their inflicted 10-point deficit.

But at the end of a scrappy game some questions remained unanswered.

That they were unable to kill off very mediocre opposition who had been reduced to nine men for the remaining 25 minutes must give cause for concern.

Hoever, Vics defended admirably and particularly when they were kicking into the teeth of a very strong wind in the opening half, restricting Workington to a single scoring opportunity.

Andy Cook, on loan from Carlisle, was left clear on goal but Aspden raced out to block a shot with his leg and Simon Grand was able to complete the clearance.

Sadly, Aspden limped from play with what appeared a strain two minutes later and was replaced by debutant James Spencer.

A difficult swirling cross from Aspin caused Tony Caig to back pedal and turn over his bar and there was a far post header from Elam that went wide.

With the elements Vics’ favour after the break they were able to build pressure.

After several threatening set pieces, from one of which Bailey headed narrowly wide, Lee Andrews dragged Elam back when in full flight and as he was the last defender he received the statutory red card.

style="font-weight: bold"> The subsequent free kick was blocked in the box and from within a crowd of players up popped Grand to score from close range.

Barely two minutes later Workington were reduced to nine men with the sending off of Tony Hopper.

The midfielder clashed with Connor and, having raised an arm, he then kicked out in the ensuing off-the-ball conflict.

The expected Vics onslaught never came and Workington were able to survive without too many more scares.

And, despite enjoying the majority of possession, Northwich only went close twice, Riley missing a sitter and Caig saving a back header from his own Phil McLuckie.

Vics: Aspden (Spencer 23mins), Aspin, Bailey, Grand, Junior, Brown, Connor (Riley 80mins), D’Laryea, Winter, Elam, Allan, Burns (Danks 63mins). Subs not used: Hanley, Horrocks.

Attendance: 471