A vocal crowd of 2,155 watched Matlock Town win the Northern Premier League top-of-the-table clash with neighbours Buxton, coming from behind to move one point clear (Monday December 27).
Disappointed but upbeat. Buxton manager Steve Cunningham said: "In football, you just have to say you'll move on to the next one. "I was proud of the boys today. We had pre-match Covid and injuries to contend with, then an early red card. We had to have sheer determination. The team displayed that and more in front of over 2,000 fans, who urged on both sides. It was a terrific atmosphere and it's going to be an exciting run-in, with 20 games left."
Bradley Jackson opened the scoring for the Bucks after 28 minutes, but team mate James Hurst saw red two minutes later after a second yellow card. Gladiators' goals from Ross Hannah (62 minutes) and Reece Kendal, (77) swung the game Matlock's way, final score 2-1.
David Brindley, a Bucks director, praised his side's efforts and the support received. "Massive thanks to all the Buxton fans, with us all the way. On the field it was a tough ask with 10 men for over an hour, but every player put in an incredible shift. "Well done to the Gladiators and see you at our place in April. Firstly, it's Stafford Rangers at the Tarmac Silverlands on Saturday afternoon."
Brad Jackson Signs...
The Bucks have taken right-winger Brad Jackson on a months’ loan from Altrincham. Brad came through the ranks at Burnley FC, enjoying loan spells at Bangor City and Southport, before joining Ashton United in 2018. Following a brief stint at Hurst Cross he joined Chester FC, where he was a firm favourite, scoring 5 goals in 71 appearances. He transferred to Altrincham last summer but has been hampered by injury in recent months. Brad made a goalscoring start to his Bucks career at Matlock last Monday.