Toolstation NCEL Premier Division
Hemsworth Miners Welfare 5-3 Worksop Town
Hemsworth Miners Welfare attacker Nash Connolly scored a hat-trick
From an entertainment point of view, the soaked spectators lapped it up. The respective managers of Hemsworth Miners Welfare and Worksop Town must have been tearing their hair out.
Nash Connolly’s hat-trick was the difference as the Wells cantered to a deserved victory. Two goals at the death made the score-line more respectable for Worksop, who succumbed to a seventh consecutive defeat.
At times Hemsworth were breathtaking going forward, it was just at the back where they let themselves down.
The incisive attacking play at times was reminiscent of the 2016 Division One title-winning side – arguably one of the NCEL’s greatest teams. It was a joy to watch. Most noticeably for 20 minutes of the second half, the Wells butchered their visitors. Only the heroics of Worksop goalkeeper Jason Alexander kept them from reaching double figures. Wayne Benn admitted in his post-match interview that his Hemsworth side should have scored more.
Hemsworth conceded first after letting an unmarked and in-form Mitch Husbands headed home from a corner.
The Wells responded straightaway with Connolly netting with a cool finish as Alexander advanced.
Youthful Worksop would have their moments, but Hemsworth always looked strong and under 21s forward Joe Taylor put them ahead with a simple finish.
The Wells came out for the second half all guns blazing. Chances were flowing like no tomorrow. Time after time, Connolly especially, the Wells forwards rag Worksop’s defence ragged.
Luke Danville’s goal-bound header was palmed away, Sam Jones rattled the crossbar as the pressure mounted before Connolly finally scored Hemsworth’s third.
That triggered a further two Hemsworth goals in six minutes. Danville would get on the score-sheet with a header. Connolly then wrapped up his treble with a close range finish.
This is where the Wells let themselves down. Benn side’s should have been pressing for the sixth and seventh goals. Instead, Jamie Robinson pulled one back for Worksop before Husbands struck from the penalty spot.
The poor defending at the end took the gloss off a great attacking display.
The Team
Hemsworth Miners Welfare: Rusling, Leach, Wilson, Hayton, Viggars, Holt (captain), Connolly, Jones, Taylor, Dockerty, Collier. Subs: Danville, Henderson, Steers, Hogg.
Who Was In Charge
Paul Tomes (10/10)
How Many Were There
150