Corey Gregory’s wonder goal secured Stocksbridge’s 2-1 win over Spalding
Corey Gregory’s wonder goal earned Stocksbridge Park Steels a 2-1 victory over Spalding United at Bracken Moor.
The win is Stocksbridge’s first Evo Stik Division One South win in three attempts and puts them back on track for a push for the top five.
It was a really positive display from the Steels, who put visiting goalkeeper Michael Duggan under plenty of pressure during the first half.
The first breakthrough came in the 37th minute – Gregory was the provider for Joe Lumsden as the home side drew blood first.
Spalding, who were flying high until a run of recent defeats, responded within minutes as Stockbridge’s defence was breached by Josh Moreman. With the help of the woodwork, the striker equalised for Spalding.
Jack Poulton tested Spalding early in the second half with an effort that the woodwork again took the brunt of.
That preceded the winner which was sprung out of nothing. Having taken control of the ball near the touchline, Gregory somehow powerfully sent it into the far top corner from the right.
It gave Stocksbridge something to hang onto and Chris Hilton’s men held on despite Spalding’s inevitable late onslaught.
Stocksbridge Park Steels (starting line-up): D Reay, Meade, Coleman, Thompson, McFadyen (captain), M Reay, Gregory, Biggins, Poulton, Lumsden, Litchfield.