Joe Townsend scored one of the goals of the season so far as Moulton Harrox progressed in the PFA Senior Cup with a 4-2 victory at ChromaSport PDFL Premier Division rivals Sawtry on Saturday.
Harrox, who have designs on a double this season having made a flawless start to their league campaign, got off to a flying start at Greenfields.
Ollie Maltby put them ahead with a fine finish following good work from skipper Billy King.
A few minutes later an outstanding cross from Ainsley Johnson allowed Townsend to score the pick of the goals as he thrashed the ball into the top corner.
Moulton chief Dave Panton was delighted by that strike and dubbed it a goal-of-the-season contender.
Hosts Sawtry then pulled one back from a header, but Harrox went back up the other end and Maltby won a penalty, which Ian Bradbury tucked away for a 3-1 lead.
However, a lapse in concentration from the Moulton backline allowed Sawtry to notch again – cutting their lead to 3-2 at the break.
With Matt Wakin breaking up play superbly in midfield, Harrox staved off any home comeback and eventually clinched their victory in the 80th minute when Townsend exploited some space to grab his second.
A pleased Panton said: “It was a great cup tie and Sawtry, like all Peterborough teams, have improved as the season progresses.
“I thought we were the better team throughout the game and Sawtry were banking on the counter attacks – which we cleared up at half time.
“After the last cup first round defeat (Lincs Junior Cup) it was – again – a great performance away and we also scored more goals.
“The lads are playing well, which I hope will continue.
“I’m really pleased at the moment – especially with so many coming training as well.”
Harrox now turn their attention back to their pursuit of the Premier Division title.
The leaders visit basement boys Uppingham Town on Saturday (2pm) and are hot favourites to make it 11 wins from as many league games.
Harrox: Kenealy, Groves, Coddington, Patterson, Johnson, Maltby, King, Allen, Watkin, Bradbury, Townsend. Sub used: Wheeler. Not used: D Panton, Lambe-Hyner.
