Dinnington Town continued their remarkable run of form with a 1-4 victory away at Blidworth Welfare, extending their unbeaten streak to eight games in the Black Dragon Premier Division North.
In what was anticipated to be a tough encounter, with both sides boasting unbeaten records, Dinnington Town delivered a performance that underlined their credentials as the team to beat this season.
The match kicked off with both teams eager to assert their dominance, but it was Dinnington Town who struck first.
In the 14th minute, Jed Phillips produced a moment of magic, finding the top corner with a superb finish that left the Blidworth Welfare goalkeeper with no chance.
The early goal settled any nerves for the visitors and put them firmly in control of the game.
Blidworth Welfare, however, showed why they too had been unbeaten this season.
On 28 minutes, they thought they had found an equaliser when the ball hit the back of the net. The Assistant Referee initially flagged for offside, but the referee overruled the decision, allowing the goal to stand and bringing the score to 1-1.
It was a controversial moment that could have shifted the momentum in the home side’s favour.
But Dinnington Town were not to be denied. Just 11 minutes later, Ash Cooper was dragged down inside the box, and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.
Up stepped Cam Evans, who calmly slotted the ball home to restore Dinnington Town's lead at 1-2. The penalty was a key moment, reasserting the visitors' control of the match as they headed into the break.
The second half began with Dinnington Town holding a slender advantage, but they were determined to put the game beyond doubt.
On 61 minutes, Josh Baxter unleashed a stunning volley that flew into the net, giving Dinnington Town a crucial two-goal cushion. It was a strike of the highest quality, showcasing Baxter’s technique and composure under pressure.
Just five minutes later, Dinnington Town effectively sealed the victory. A long ball from goalkeeper Steven Booth was controlled by Travis Hodgson, who unselfishly squared the ball to Jed Phillips. Phillips made no mistake, tapping in his second goal of the game to make it 1-4 and all but guarantee Dinnington Town’s eighth consecutive win.
Dinnington Town had more moments, but the Blidworth Welfare goalkeeper and defence held firm to prevent the scoreline from becoming even more one-sided.
As the final whistle blew, Dinnington Town celebrated yet another impressive victory, solidifying their position at the top of the table. Their unbeaten run now stretches to eight games
Dinnington Town are next in action on Saturday 7th September, away to Doncaster City in the Black Dragon Premier Division North. Kick-off is at 3:00pm.