Littleton 5

Fernhill County Sports Res 3

IN a highly entertaining game, Littleton just edged out close rivals Fernhill County Sports Res. The game ebbed and flowed with Fernhill twice being in the lead only to be pegged back by a resilient Littleton.

Fernhill took the lead after just three minutes from a penalty, which Trevor Boot converted with ease. This seemed to unnerve Littleton and for the next 15 to 20 minutes they were under pressure as Fernhill carried the attack to them.

Fernhill could have doubled their lead but missed a simple chance, then a 20-yard drive from John Dale went just over the bar.

However, Littleton turned the game on its head with goals in the 40th and 43rd minutes to go into half-time with a lead which had not seemed likely.

Firstly a long free kick from Matthew Edwards wide on the right was met by a diving header by Robbie Harris at the far post, then Darren Reeves sent Billy Hiden down the left. His cross was met by Stuart Sollis who had timed his run to perfection to beat the 'keeper from close range.

Fernhill came out at the start of the second half and scored two in three minutes. Dave Saunders converted from close range to finish off an excellent four-man move, then Boot converted a second penalty.

The game continued to be a furious battle but Littleton drew level in the 67th minute.

Simon Brain, making his debut, broke through, went round the 'keeper but was brought down and Reeves hammered home the penalty.

Two minutes later it was 4-3 to Littleton and again Brain was involved. His shot from the left hit the inside of the post and Curtis Major was quickest to react, stabbing in from close range.

In the fifth minute of injury time Littleton completed the scoring. Brain wide on the left shot across the keeper to send Littleton supporters in a good crowd home happy.

Littleton now have two away games. On Wednesday Earlswood (2pm) and Saturday, West Midlands Police Res (2.45pm).