With a historic ninth season in the Northern Premier League secured for the Collieries on Friday evening by results elsewhere, it was a relaxed afternoon in Staffordshire as the Stripes failed to turn an attacking display into goals.
To say the first half was mediocre would be putting it rather kindly. With the Stripes safe and the hosts almost there, it was a half to forget, almost.
On 44 minutes, Town goal machine Tim Grice was given the freedom of the penalty box at a long throw and he finished unerringly. An oasis of quality. Joe Piggott had previously reco dee the only Colls effort of note but his shot from the edge of the box was easily rebuffed. The second half could only improve.
Unfortunately the second stanza continued in a similar vein. Colls had the majority of possession but lacked the wit to break down a determined Castle rearguard who were totally dominant in the air. Grice could and really should have doubled his tally as he raced clear for the best chance of the half, but he miscued his effort.
Would Cleggy’s team been better had they had to get at least a point to secure NPL football? We will
never know the answer to that question but it was a rare off day. Fair credit to the Staffordshire outfit who did everything what was expected of them and their survival is also guaranteed. Colls very rarely win this suburb of Stoke.
The black n white stripes have a quick chance to put things right on Easter Monday. Clitheroe visit the Dreams2Reality Stadium in the final home league game of the campaign. A bumper crowd is anticipated. Ko 3pm.
