FOOTBALL: EARLSWOOD claimed a vital three points as they moved up the Midland League Division Two table thanks to a 3-1 victory over fellow strugglers Leamington Hibernian.
A heavy pitch and strong wind made playing conditions difficult for both sides at Eastham Road on Saturday, and with both sides on 22 points ahead of kick-off, both knew just how crucial a win would be.
Earls were first on the attack and Thomas Dobson had an effort that went just wide of a post while at the other end a Hibs player struck an effort that just cleared the bar.
The visitors hit the bar with a header in the 18th minute from a corner on the right and sis minutes later Jonathan Windle threaded his way through the Hibs defence only to see his effort go just wide as the teams went in goalless at the break.
Earlswood attacked from the off at the start of the second half with Jonathon Windle and Thomas Dobson coming close before the hosts took a 49th minutes lead.
A shot assisted by the wind came back of the visiting keeper into the path of Steve Nurse who despatched the rebound into the back of the net.
This spurred Hibs on for an equaliser and after coming close twice in quick succession, they eventually got their reward with a 64th minutes equaliser.
It turned the game into an exciting encounter with both sides creating chances. Nurse saw his shot well saved before another breakthrough came with three minutes to go.
A cross from the right found Thomas Dobson who was well placed to head Earlswood into the lead again and just a few minutes later James Giblin made the game safe with a terrific shot into the top corner of the net.
Up next for Earlswood this Saturday is a trip to Smithswood Firs.
