Saturday, March 31, 2001

A SUPERB all round performance saw Bromsgrove Rovers brush aside high-flying Mangotsfield United 3-1 at Cossham Street.

It gave Rovers three vital points in their fight against relegation from the Dr Martens League Western Division.

Mangotsfield were the better side for the opening 30 minutes, Rob Claridge having attempts blocked by Lee Hughes and Quentin Towns-end inside the first ten minutes.

Soon after Darren Edwards had his powerful header saved by Elliott Morris, and Grant Beckett was on hand to clear off the goalline.

Mangotsfield made two early substitutes to change their tactical approach, however it was Rovers who seemed to find space to attack.

On 31 minutes Steve Frost's shot was saved and a minute later Kevin Banner saw his goal bound effort tipped over the crossbar by Paul Thompson.

Rovers, however, scored with their next attack. Costas Xiourouppa won a free kick on the edge of the penalty area, and a short pass found Hughes who sidestepped two defenders before hammering in a shot which Thompson was unable to hold, and Xiourouppa was on hand to net his first goal for the Greens.

Rovers almost doubled their advantage on 60 minutes. Anthony Watson won a challenge and his long clearance found Hughes in space, his first effort was saved, and the follow up put just wide.

The travelling supporters did not have long to wait. On 64 minutes David Bridgewater and Banner set Xiourouppa away on goal, and his defence-splitting pass was inch-perfect for Frost to hammer the ball past the advancing Thompson.

Mangotsfield were stung into action as Rovers came under increasing pressure, and they pulled a goal back on 73 minutes, David Elsey rocketing a free kick beyond Morris from 35 yards.

But Rovers, showing confidence beyond their league position, were soon two goals to the good again. Beckett fired over a left wing cross and Banner volleyed home at the far post.

Both keepers continued to make a string of saves. Rovers defence was superb, none more so than man of the match Mark Creighton.

Rovers: Morris 8, Watson 7, Hughes 7 (Nicholls 74), Townsend 7, Frost 8, Creighton 9 (Sumnal 81), Bridgewater 8, Ball 7, Xiourouppa 8, Banner 7, Beckett 8. Sub not used: Lloyd.

Star man: Mark Creighton.

Attendance: 271.