BRAD Bauress scored a decisive goal, his 24th of the season, as Witton Albion closed to within a point of leaders Shaw Lane on Saturday.

Carl Macauley’s men, who had to come from behind, duly extend a winning sequence to four matches in the Northern Premier League’s Division One South.

They took the lead inside 10 minutes when Rob Hopley, returning to the starting line-up after injury, headed an opening goal.

However the Scholars replied, firstly when Liam Holt converted at the far post and then when Jack Langston converted a penalty after Anthony Brown had handled inside the box.

Witton restored parity shortly after the interval when Karl Noon sprinted clear of the visitors’ defence before skipping around goalkeeper Curtis Pond to score.

And Bauress’ moment followed on 67 minutes, firing low past the Chasetown number one’s left hand after Matty Devine had burst past two defenders.

Pond was alert to deny Hopley another goal, while at the other end Mitch Piggon was unable to control a rebound in the closing stages that might have earned his side a share of the spoils.

Witton return to action on Tuesday, when Carlton are their guests.

Kick off is at 7.45pm.

Witton | Roberts (GK), Gardner, Devine, Wilson, Brown, Williams, Tames, Noon, Hopley, Jones (Omotola 61), Bauress Subs not used Lycett, Hickman, Owens, Hare (GK) Goals Hopley 10, Noon 50, Bauress 67

Match report by Phil Chadwick