In a dominant performance, Bold Miners secured their third win in four games, thrashing rivals Redgate 6-0 and climbing to 6th in the table. This emphatic victory was marked by standout performances and strategic changes that paid off handsomely.
Starting Lineup and Early Goals
Despite his goal-scoring heroics against Runcorn Celtic, Kieran McKelvie was dropped to the bench as Charles Lea started at left back. Gareth Griffiths was brought back into the lineup, replacing James Hynes. Paul Strickland returned in goal as Jamie Knowles was named amongst the substitutes as an outfield player.
Bold Miners started the match with an aggressive approach, and it paid off within the opening two minutes. Euan McArthur opened the scoring with a precise finish from a tight angle, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Dominance in the First Half
The team’s momentum continued as Tommy Howard doubled the lead around the 20-minute mark, heading home a corner. Shortly after, Jack Seddon extended the advantage to 3-0 by scoring directly from a corner kick. The first half dominance was capped off by Matt McBride’s conversion from an Owen Flaherty cross, marking McBride’s sixth goal of the season in just five appearances.
Second Half Brilliance
The second half saw Bold Miners maintain their pressure. Jack Seddon scored his second of the game with a brilliant direct free kick into the top corner after McBride was brought down. The onslaught continued with Euan McArthur grabbing his second goal, assisted by Nilsen. This goal was the result of a clever dummy by substitute Kieran McKelvie, which allowed Nilsen to play McArthur in for the finish.
Heroic Penalty Save
Just before the 80-minute mark, Damion Baker conceded a penalty, providing Redgate with a glimmer of hope. However, goalkeeper Paul Strickland heroically saved the spot-kick, preserving Bold Miners’ first clean sheet of the season. This crucial save further demoralised the opposition and cemented Strickland’s role as a key player in the team’s defensive lineup.
Red Card and Close Calls
Towards the end of the match, a Redgate player was sent off after kicking out at Josh Burke, further diminishing their chances of a comeback. McKelvie, coming off the bench as an attacker, nearly added to the scoreline twice. A close-range effort was saved by the keeper after being played in by Ryan Gregory, and a right-footed half-volley was tipped onto the crossbar after Tommy Howard chested the ball into McKelvie’s path from a Nilsen free kick.
Player of the Match
Gabriel Ursu was awarded Player of the Match for his exceptional performance, consistently being first to everything and almost scoring from a long-range drive in the first half. Former Redgate player Gareth Griffiths was recognized as the opposition’s Player of the Match, being a constant threat and thorn in their side throughout the game.
Conclusion
This resounding victory showcased Bold Miners’ potential and strategic versatility, with key players stepping up and new tactics paying off. The team will look to build on this momentum as they continue their campaign, now sitting comfortably in 6th place.
