Grantham & District Saturday League
Premier Division
Bottesford 4
Greyhounders 2
Bottesford recorded their second win in as many weeks with a hard fought victory over their local rivals.
Greyhounders started the better of the sides, retaining possession with some fluid passing. Yet neither side could create a clear cut opportunity, though Bottesford keeper Ben Loomes had to make two outstanding saves from excellent long range shots.
It took a set-piece to finally break the deadlock with Greyhounders stabbing home a corner from inside the six-yard area. Strangely, this seemed to settle Bottesford’s nerves and they began to get into the match. They soon levelled when Theo Wilkinson’s header was saved, only to fall to Cameron Corkett who made no mistake from 10 yards.
Corkett then gave Bottesford the lead from the penalty spot before Wilkinson got in on the act to give Bottesford a 3-1 half time lead.
Bottesford improved again in the second period, despite spells of Greyhounders possession were resolute at the back.
Wilkinson had what looked a perfectly good goal ruled out moments before Corkett did actually extend the lead. He rounded the keeper to complete his hat trick and a fine individual display.
Greyhounders ensured a nervy finish with a well struck free kick, but Bottesford held out to claim a deserved victory in a derby game that was played in a great spirit by both sides.