FOOTBALL in the lower reaches can sometimes be an ugly spectacle with bone-shuddering tackles and aimless 80-yard balls up field.

But naff soccer is not exclusive to the non-league divisions - indeed dross can be dished out even at Premiership level (bonjour Monsieur Houllier).

For the dedicated supporter though, the honest endeavour of their players' exertions is usually appreciated and cheered on in a tide of blind emotion.

But just occasionally the game at whatever level coughs up a nugget -- a shot, a dribble, a pass, a purple patch of play -- that makes attending all those mundane matches really worthwhile.

One such flash of brilliance occurred last Saturday in Worcester City's 3-1 defeat of King's Lynn, courtesy of the talented Darren Middleton.

The midfielder is fast turning into a scorer of great goals rather than a great goalscorer, despite his preferred position being as an out-and-out striker.

As Worcester first team coach Mick Tuohy remarked, Middleton could have bagged as many goals as Mark Owen if you consider all the chances he's had.

As it stands, however, Middleton's goal tally reads played 11 matches, goals two, compared to Owen's played 11, goals 12, and that ratio is unlikely to improve.

But if he carries on scoring goals like the one aginst King's Lynn, or the last minute winner against Hinckley United when he chipped the keeper from 25 yards, then I don't think too many City fans will be complaining.

On Saturday, Martin Weir picked Middleton out deep in his own half and then he set off with only one thing in his mind -- to attack.

Side-stepping two hapless Linnets defenders just inside their own half, he bore down on goal before sliding the ball home.

A run of 80 yards at pace from his own half, two defenders left for dead and a deadly finish -- wow! It was breathtaking -- worth the entrance fee and a burger thrown in as well.

For ten seconds the St George's Lane crowd was glued to the figure of Middleton bursting through the middle and reminded me why we watch this game.

It is for those moments of inspiration that lodge in your memory to be marvelled at or regaled in soccer conversations in smoke filled pubs.

So yes, Middleton might not score enough goals, but in the murky depths of non-league football, where moments of outstanding skill and brilliance are rare, then I'm happy to wait for the next one from City midfielder's magic boots -- even if simple tap-ins seem beyond him!