The main difference between two evenly matched sides in Sunday's local derby against Woodley Sports was the lethal finishing displayed by Mossley while the visitors constantly floundered in front of goal.

The Lilywhites finishing was absolutely clinical on this occasion and but for three fine saves by former Mossley Youth keeper James Dean the scoreline could have been even more emphatic.

Woodley started the game strongly and bossed midfield for the opening twenty minutes as Mossley failed to make any impact at all, being penned back in their own half by a Woodley side who surprised the Lilywhites youngsters with some forceful and penatrative attacking play. Where it broke down for Woodley was in front of goal where Ellis and Dorney wasted gilt edged chances when it looked easier to score.

Mossley finally entered the Woodley half for pretty much the first time on 21 minutes and it proved lucrative for the home side. Omar McKenzie broke down the right and cut inside the box only to be brought down by a despairing mistimed tackle as he prepared to shoot. McKenzie then slotted home the resultant penalty himself.

Three minutes later and the visitors were shocked again when they unexpectedly found themselves two goals behind. This time it was Adam Bezzina who raced clear down the left channel to fire past the stranded Dean.

Woodley continued to dictate the game beyond that point but found the Mossley defence now shored up and their chances became fewer.

The second half was a far more even affair but Woodley were constantly wasteful with the chances that came their way while Dean showed why Mossley were hoping to re-sign him this season with a couple of excellent saves to deny Bezzina and McKenzie.

Mossley edged further ahead on 75 minutes. Debutant Kane Joyce broke down the right and crossed low for substitute Jordan Rutter to tap home from close range.

With Woodley's resistance finally broken Omar McKenzie rubbed salt in the visitors wounds with two goals in the closing minutes. The first of which saw the skilful midfielder glide past several tackles and round the keeper before stroking the ball into an empty net for a real 'goal of the season' contender.

Report by Wizard

pics by Smiffy