Wilkinson the goal hero as Daventry move up to fifth

It was a hard fought victory.

Town dominated the first half, but after the break, Bar came out looking a different team and they put in a much stronger performance.

Daventry Town boss Darran Foster said: “We knew this was a must-win fixture, and it is important we win our games in hand.

“We knew the lads would tire, after such a long lay-off and then playing two away games on heavy pitches. It was always going to be hard on the players.

“We should have had the match wrapped up in the first half. We hit the woodwork twice and kept their keeper very busy. All credit to Potters Bar, they never gave up and had the majority of possession in the second period. Although they retained the ball very well, I do’t think Richard Morris had a save to make.

“So from a defensive point of view it was a gritty performance. I thought Ollie’s finish was first class and a great goal to win any game.”

Daventry started the match well. Luke Keen looked like he had broken the deadlock after 20 minutes but his shot came back off the upright.

The winning goal came soon after, a Ross Oulton corner was headed out to Wilkinson, who hit a superb half volley into the net from the edge of the area.

Bar did get better as the game wore on, but the Daventry defence, led by man of the match Liam Dolman, stood firm.

Daventry are back at Communications Park this Saturday when they entertain AFC Hayes - it will be Town’s first home match in six weeks.

The last match played at home was against Marlow on January 21.

A big crowd is expected to welcome back the team as they make the final push for automatic promotion or a play-off places.

Foster is hoping the Purple Army will now get behind his team, and he said: “A home game at last! AFC Hayes will prove decent opposition so we must dig deep to keep our fine home form going.

“The next couple of weeks will be a massive part of our season, we shall need the full backing from the Town’s supporters. Let’s hope the improvement in the weather continues so we can improve our attendances.”

Next Wednesday, Town travel to Leighton to take on Aylesbury United, who ground share with Leighton Town.

Match Facts

Potters Bar 0 Daventry Town 1

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Calor League Division One Central

Parkfield Stadium, Potters Bar, Herts

Daventry: Richard Morris, Ollie Wilkinson, Tom James (Josh Blake 61mins), Liam Dolman, Ashley Deeney, Adam Confue, Ross Oulton, Ashley Robinson, Luke Keen, Jimmy Husband (Ryan Howell 77mins) ,Will Green (Josh O’Grady 50mins)

Scorers: Ollie Wilkinson 26mins

MOM: Liam Dolman

In the book: Yellows – Luke Keen 30mins, Ollie Wilkinson 72mins,

Attendance: 54