Report by SJG

NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE

NETHERFIELD vs WIGAN ATHLETIC

14^th August 1971

GEOFF DAVIES MAKES THE DIFFERENCE.

Despite the one-sided scoreline the Latics were far from impressive in this opening game of the new season.

Netherfield had more than their fair share of chances and when Jim FLEMING grabbed the opening goal on 19 minutes it was distinctly against the run of play.

The home side were wasteful in-front of goal and the Wigan defenders did well in restricting the shooting chances and when the rearguard was breached Reeves proved a formidable obstacle.

Half Time; Netherfield 0-1 Wigan Athletic

The second half continued in similar fashion but tempers flared following a number of badly timed challenges. 

The decisive factor was the excellent composure and finishing skills of Geoff DAVIES who fired home the second goal of the game in the 50^th minute and then it was DAVIES again in the 73^rd minute who put the game beyond the profligate home side and ensured that Latics grabbed both points.

Full Time; Netherfield 0-3 Wigan Athletic

Scorers; Fleming (19), Davies (50), (73);

Attendance; 900

Team; WIGAN---Reeves; King, Ledgard, Coutts, Gillibrand; Sutherland, Temple, Todd, Oates; Fleming, Davies; Sub;--- Breen

NETHERFIELD---Bayliss; Tugman, Fisher, Taylor, Arrowsmith; Porter, Lynn, Grimshaw, Kershaw; Hennity, Parry; Sub;--- Wilson

Referee; Mr. G. A. Myers (York)

Despite the decisive win Latics had to settle for third place in the table as both Chorley (8-0) and Lancaster City (5-0) beat Matlock and Kirkby Town respectively to move above them on goals scored.