MANCHESTER Central FC made a big step in their bid to win promotion to the Manchester League Premier Division on Saturday with a 2-1 win at the Manchester Regional Arena against Chapel Town.

Manchester Central FC made a big step in their bid to win promotion to the Manchester League Premier Division on Saturday with a 2-1 win at the Manchester Regional Arena against Chapel Town.

Chapel Town took the lead half-way through the first period, after having the main share of possession and chances, with a towering header from defender James Everall.

Central struggled to get a hold of the game but five minutes before time Cory Knight added to his impressive goal-tally for the season to make it 1-1 going into the interval.

With just under 20 minutes to spare, Central won themselves a penalty after some great build-up play. The decision was bitter-sweet for the team in white, as defender Tom Greenfield picked up his second yellow card for dissent.

Full-back Dan Jones stepped up to take the penalty and made no mistake, slotting into the right corner to make sure Central went home with all three points.

Chapel Town showed that they could keep possession well throughout the game, with Manchester Central being limited to counter attacks and long-balls for most of the game.

As always, forward Cory Knight was a standout performer for Central, holding up the ball well, using his quick feet and composure to bring his teammates into the game.

After the game Jamar Campbell explained his thoughts: “We were a bit slow to get into the game, but that happens in football, you can’t be on your best form every game.”

“That penalty really did it for us. It was good to get the confidence back which will be good for next week against a tough team.”

Central manager Paul McGuire also added his thoughts: “It was an interesting game, Chapel came here and took it to us, but we stood up to it well. We showed great character and came back.”

“When you lose you’ve got to bounce back and get another three points, so we did that today. It was ugly today, but it’s a win.”

Central’s next game sees them play 4th place Bolton County, a game in which a win will take McGuire’s side into the play-off positions. Chapel Town will be looking to bounce back in a game at home against Beechfield United.

By David Clarke

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