Marsden hosted Nook United on a lovely Sunday morning down at The Bents. It was perfect weather for football although the pitch was bobbly all over. It's got to a stage now in the season where it's pointless listing the players missing as it 6, 7, 8 every single week now. Marsden turned to experience given the number of players missing, with Stuart Bond, new signing James Nipper, Paul Tomlin, Danny Nixon and Graeme Wilkinson all drafted in to help out.

Stuart Bond partnered Kieran Garrick at the heart of defence with Sam Went left back and James Nipper at right back. Adam Brown moved into central midfield with Jude Shilling partnering Ashton Defty up front. Graeme Wilkinson, Danny Nixon and Paul Tomlin were the experienced subs on the day.

Marsden started brightly and deservedly took the lead following great graft from Zac Palmer, allowing Ashton Defty to slide in and smash the ball into the back of the net, 1-0. Marsden were putting tackles in and working hard with James Nipper looking comfortable even though he hasn't played for a number of years. Nook drew level with a simple equaliser before, taking the lead with a deflected effort that looped over Kev Garrick. Stuart Bond tweeked his groin and was replaced by Danny Nixon on the half hour mark, 1-2.

Marsden got into the break, re-grouped and went back out with a good positive attitude. However, Nook United went 1-3 up as Corey Welsh was forced off with an ankle injury, replaced by Graeme Wilkinson. Nook went 1-4 ahead as a looped header sailed over Kev Garrick. James Nipper who was very good, came off with 15 left as Paul Tomlin was brought on. The excellent Adam Brown moved to centre half alongside Kieran Garrick who himself had an outstanding game.

Graeme Wilkinson surged into the penalty area late on and was fouled for a Marsden penalty, which was converted by Paul Tomlin, 2-4. However, any thought of a comeback was halted as the referee harshly adjudged Kev Garrick to have fouled an opposing forward who stepped up to score, 2-5 and the end of the match came moments later.

Overall the lads who turned up gave everything and that's all Marsden ever ask. There was a good spirit for the game and hopefully that continues into the last 2 games of the season.

MOM - Jude Shilling

Marsden CW FC

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