Littleton 1, Atherstone Town 2

IN FRONT of an excellent crowd of 142, Littleton entertained Saturday's high-flying Midland Combination Divis-ion One and came within ten minutes of victory.

On a windy afternoon, the hosts enjoyed the benefit of the elements in the first half taking the lead on ten minutes when Matthew Edwards cur-led a corner straight in under the bar.

Atherstone are a young side and they fought back strongly and the midfield was no area for faint hearts as the visitors fought for every ball.

A fierce drive was well saved by Adrian Pritchard in the home goal as half-time approached.

The second half was barely two minutes old when a good move by Simon Brain and Matt Staley carved open the defence and it took a smart stop to prevent Littleton doubling their tally.

However, as the half progressed, Atherstone increased the pressure but Littleton held firm and even managed the odd breakaway.

As in the first half the tackles from both sides were fierce as the bookings count rose.

Just when it seemed Littleton might hold out they were pegged back seven minutes from time when substitute Matt Brown's precise header sent the away fans wild with delight.

The same player then netted what proved to be the winner in stoppage-time to break the hearts of the home team who had given their all. The game was sponsored by Tony Rose.

Littleton are away to Perrywood on Saturday in the Eve-sham Hospital Cup.