Mossley put in a strong and committed performance against play off chasers Scarborough Athletic on Saturday and can feel a little hard done by as the Lilywhites fell to a 2-0 defeat.

Star of the show was Scarborough keeper Joseph Green who kept his side in the game in the first half with several excellent saves as Mossley created several scoring chances in a dominant showing.

Mossley gave a debut at right back to new signing Rob Flynn, replacing the injured Caldon Henson, and he acquitted himself well in his new surroundings.

Mossley were on the front foot from the off as the visitors struggled to get a foothold in the game.

The first clear chance for Mossley came when Tom Pratt slipped Liam Ellis in on the right channel. Ellis did everything right as he held off a tackle but Green did brilliantly to somehow turn his low shot around the post.

Pratt and man of the match Mason Duffy were also denied by the big ’boro stopper as Mossley continued to cause trouble.

It was however, Scarborough who took a first half lead against the run of play in the 28th minute with a controversial goal. A free kick from deep on Mossley’s right saw Will Jones apparently collect the ball under pressure but was clattered by an onrushing ‘boro player. The ball was spilled in the challenge to give Cameron Murray a simple empty net tap in. The goal awarded despite strong Mossley protests. Jones, hurt in the collision needed several minutes treatment before the game could resume.

The game was halted on 37 minutes when Scarborough midfielder and assistant manager Chris Bolder apparently collapsed and after another lengthy stoppage was carried off on a stretcher and worryingly away to hospital. (The good news is that he was released from hospital later the same evening and is recovering well).

Pratt was again denied by Green moments before the break and Scarborough maintained their lead to the break.

The second half was a more even affair but the best chance again fell to Mossley as Duffy broke clear on the left channel only to yet again be denied by another fine save.
Scarborough sealed the points on 66 minutes when Benny Igiehon volleyed home from eight yards as the ball broke to him following a right wing corner.

Mossley worked manfully to try and force their way back into the game but Scarborough finished in cruise control with the points safely in the bag to aid their play off hopes.

Wiz

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