Paul Crowson admitted to being “pleasantly surprised” by the performance of depleted Moulton Harrox in Saturday’s 4-3 win over Ketton at Broad Lane.
With nine first team regulars missing, Harrox had to draft in a host of Reserve team players for the clash between two of the ChromaSport PDF Premier Division’s top seven.
Joe Townsend fired Moulton ahead from a corner, but Seb Hood hit back with a headed leveller for Ketton.
It was 2-1 before the break when Josh McGuire fired home – although Ryan Wheeler is claiming he got a touch on the strike.
Will Bird levelled on the hour, only for Dan Woods to bury a penalty to make it 3-2 to Harrox. Dangerman Bird equalised once again, only for Louis Steadman to lash home a cracking late winner from distance to keep Moulton’s hopes of finishing in second place alive.
Harrox number two Crowson said: “With the selection problems we had – I think it was nine first team players missing – I was pleasantly surprised with the performance.
“It was a hectic day really. To be missing so many players against a difficult opponent like Ketton was always going to be tough.
“But I don’t know if even our strongest side would have done as well as the team we put out.
“As well as those coming in, the likes of Joe Townsend and Dan Woods really stepped up to the plate.
“The winner from Louis was a great effort from the edge of the box – I think he enjoyed that one.
“With only three games left, all we can do is win them all and see where we end up.”
Harrox hope to welcome back seven players for tonight’s (Wednesday) game at Netherton United, but Billy King and Matt Watkin are out for the rest of the season.
Harrox then visit Wisbech Town Reserves this Saturday (2pm).
Harrox: Kenealy, McGuire, Hall, Cairns, Bailey-Smith, L Steadman, Francis, Ball, Woods, Townsend, Wheeler. Subs used: Elderkin, Price. Not used: Sinfield, N Steadman.
