Mossley AFC manager Shaun Higgins was quick to compliment star striker Kris Dennis, following a game where his two goals led Mossley to a 3-2 victory over high-flying Clitheroe.

Mossley first found the net on just 4 minutes, when a low driving Ben Richardson free kick was tapped home by centre half Andy Watson. Clitheroe keeper Danny McDonald couldn’t quite do enough to stop the ball from crossing the line.

It wasn’t long before Mossley struck again, as recent signing Kris Dennis was put through one on one with the keeper, as the visitors defence was caught square. His pace helped him past Clitheroe’s centre half’s and proceeded to slot home through the keepers legs to double Mossley’s lead on just 13 minutes.

The hosts caught Clitheroe on the break again before half time, when a smart ball from Mossley captain Graham Kay found its way into the path of the prolific Dennis, who this time rounded the keeper and slotting home past the helpless Jack Higgins on the line, giving Mossley a 3 goal advantage at the break.

Mossley manager Higgins’ said: “If we would have had Kris [Dennis] at the start of the season, we would be heading for the top 5. Goals win games, and he can’t stop scoring. He is a model player.”

The Lilywhites could have sealed the game on 52 minutes, former Hibernian player Aaron Chalmers found himself free in the box from a corner, but couldn’t keep his header below the bar. The failure to take that chance could have been costly as Clitheroe were to finish the game the stronger team.

Clitheroe upped the tempo of their play and a goalmouth scramble led to a goal. Winger Danny Williams slotted home after Peter Collinge couldn’t get his hands on the ball.

Collinge was put under a lot of pressure in the second half, being forced into four top class saves from the visiting team to keep the Lilywhites ahead.

Despite strong offside shouts, Clitheroe ensured the last 5 minutes were going to be a fight for Mossley, as Tom Williams’ half volley found its way into the corner of the net.

However the pressure came too late and Mossley held on for the win, increasing their unbeaten run to 5 games, helping them to climb towards the top half of the table.

Report by Aaron Flanagan