Stalybridge Celtic got one over on local rivals Mossley on Easter Monday in a Tameside derby at Bower Fold.
Hosts Celtic created the first chance of the afternoon with just five minutes on the clock when Aaron Dwyer’s effort from just outside the area sailed over the crossbar.
A quick counter then saw Celtic midfielder Benito Lowe find space in behind the Mossley defence before forcing a fine save from Fin Madagan who pushed the ball wide of the target.
The shot-stopper was in action again moments later, producing another great stop to deny Jordan Burton.
Burton was involved again just after the hour mark and this time Madigan could not keep his effort out, with the winger calmly slotting the ball into the corner and putting his side ahead.
This lead was almost doubled early in the second half when Aaron Dwyer latched onto a cross from Ethen Vaughan but yet another superb save from Madigan denied the hosts a second.
With just ten minutes to go in the match, visitors Mossley were handed a lifeline in the form of a spot-kick after Max Leonard hacked down Ben Darby in the penalty area.
But the Lilywhites were unable to convert, with goalkeeper Luke Hewitson producing a fine safe to deny Kane Hickman, tipping his effort onto the crossbar.
A much-needed win for James Kinsey’s men, which just about keeps their promotion dreams alive with four games to go.
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