Division One

Irchester United  2    Peterborough Northern Star  1

Saturday, 03 April 2010

The Romans are within touching distance of the title after this win over the reigning champions at Alfred Street.

Visiting keeper Richard Roberts was in early action, smothering at the feet of Mike Houghton in the first minute, but after twelve minutes the Star keeper suffered a broken leg in a collision with Romans front runner Paul Caswell.

After a half an hour delay awaiting ambulance play resumed with Star midfielder Mark Baines between the posts and he was well placed to thwart Paul Caswell who turned smartly in the box to get his shot in.

Carl Mackney in the Romans goal tipped over a Ryan Francis free kick before Baines did likewise at the other end to deny Alan Campbell a dead ball opener.

A scare for Star saw Chris Plummer clear off the line after Paul Caswell outjumped Baines to a Campbell free kick.

After 29 minutes Irchester were awarded a spot kick as Tom Moran brought down Paul Caswell, but Chris Caswell's penalty was saved by Baines.

Early in the second half Karl Gibbs headed wide from a Star free kick.

Irchester went ahead after 66 minutes when Campbell played a free kick in to Paul Caswell who turned his marker to fire into the far corner for his 19th goal of the season.

The home lead was doubled ten minutes from the end when Houghton's cross from the left eluded keeper and defender to give Jamie Gilsenan a simple finish.

When Star replied Mackney turned a low shot from substitute Josh Moreman round the post.

Nathan Horne's rasping drive from the right of the box gave Star a last minute consolation,

Irchester: Carl Mackney, Michael Duroe, Liam Carson, Mark Hackett, Steve Julian, Paul Caswell, Jamie Gilsenan, Chris Logan, Chris Caswell, Alan Campbell, Mike Houghton (Eddie Mills).

Star: Richard Roberts (Ian Edge), Nathan Horne, Eddie Patten, Tom Moran, Chris Plummer, Lee Blewett, Ali Nyang, Mark Baines, Karl Gibbs, Ryan Francis (Josh Moreman), Wayne Morris.