A VERY GOOD FRIDAY

Connor Kirby's fine shot on 20 minutes gave the Bucks victory over Chorley

A captain-fantastic goal by Connor Kirby, surely one of the season's most stunning strikes on target, gave Buxton a 1-0 victory over fellow Vanarama National League North play-off challengers Chorley, Friday April 18, watched by a resoundingly enthusiastic Tarmac Silverlands crowd of 1,131.

The Bucks looked highly organised from back to front, moved the ball forward at every opportunity and limited any threat from often outplayed Chorley. This was a fine win, with 67% possession.

Skipper Kirby's brilliant goal came after 20 minutes. A series of quick and accurate passes took the ball to Luke Brennan, whose cross was diverted by a defender to be met by an unstoppable drive that left the beaten goalie with head in hands. Full Match Report HERE

Buxton's team manager John McGrath heaped praise on his players. He said: "In training, we built it up to be the vital game that it was, and we were excellent out there. The lads were on it from minute one. We got out of the blocks quickly every time.

"Chorley are a leading side and we had to nullify any threats. We wanted to see no cheap free kicks, corner or throw-ins. Instead, we stuck to the game plan, and they didn't get a real scoring chance until late in the game.

"We're in the play-offs now so it's in our hands. The call is to come with us to Alfreton on Easter Monday, for the next big challenge."

The Alfreton Town game at the Impact Arena is due to kick off on Monday at 3pm. Bucks fans are asked to enter the ground via the Alma Street entrance. The final game of the pre-play-offs season will be at home to already-relegated Warrington Town, next Saturday, also with a 3pm start.