Manderwood Pembrokeshire League Division 1: Merlins Bridge 2-0 Goodwick United

LAURIE Haworth scored two crucial late goals for Merlins Bridge who overcame ten-man Goodwick United at the Racecourse, writes Gordon Thomas.

This was an important victory for Matthew D’Ivry’s Wizards and keepd them in he title race, and for Wayne O’Sullivan’s Goodwick outfit it represented a first league defeat of the season. The Phoenix Lads are now four points behind leaders Monkton Swifts with seven games of the season to go.

The visitors were reduced to ten-men in a scoreless first half when Matty Delaney was sent off for dissent by Angus Scourfield. With Delaney taking an early shower it was always going to be an uphill struggle for the visitors although they held out until 15 minutes from time.

The hosts took the lead in the 75th minute, Joe Leahy’s cross was bundled into the net by Laurie Haworth despite O’Sullivan getting a touch.

Goodwick tried to respond, but in the 90th minute with even keeper James Gwilt up in attack for the visitors as they tried to get a last gasp equaliser, the Wizards broke with Will Haworth releasing elder brother Laurie who had the simple task of running the ball into the empty net.

This Saturday Merlins Bridge travel to St Clears, and Goodwick United will be looking to get back on title track with a home game against Neyland.

In reality both need three points.

Merlins Bridge: Gary Thomas, Matthew D’Ivry, Chris Ormond, Jordan Thomas, Andrew John, David Davies, Luke Hayward, Laurie Haworth, Joe Leahy, Nathan Greene, Ashley Beck. Subs: Gethin Roberts, Joe Haworth, Will Haworth.

Goodwick United: James Gwilt, Steff Hayes, Wayne O’Sullivan, Scott Delaney, Llyr Tobin, Matty Delaney, Chris O’Sullivan, Jordan Griffiths, Stephen Dockerty, Rhys Dalling, Lee Hudgell. Subs: Kieran O’Brien, Jonny Horgan, Jamie Evans.

Referee: Angus Scourfield.