News

The Banks’s League title and the tantalising prospect of promotion to the Beazer Homes League Midland Division remain absolute priority at the Moat Ground.

But manager Frank Northwood believes Rovers’ fixture list gives them a serious attempt at winning the floodlit competition at the first attempt.

Said Northwood: “We were a bit unsure when we first went into the competition, but everyone at the club is starting to enjoy it. The players are now looking forward to the games. The quality of the opposition is good and I think interest among the fans will grow. We’re definitely taking it seriously because we want to win it.”

Tuesday’s excellent 2-1 victory over Matlock Town at Causeway Lane took Rovers into a challenging position in their group in a competition which encourages enterprising football by awarding three points for an away win, but only two for a home win.

Gresley thus have five points from three games, putting them in second place behind Eastwood Town who have a better goal difference and have played a game less.

The winners of the east and west groups play off in a two-legged final.

Results so far in Gresley’s group: Alfreton 3, Gresley 1; Alfreton 0 Eastwood 4;
Gresley 2 Alfreton 0; Eastwood 2, Matlock 1; Matlock 1, Gresley 2.

Northwood has paid tribute to departing utility man Steve Adcock, who is linking up with Websters CML title-chasers Heanor Town.

The Rovers boss said: “Steve wanted a guarantee of first team football and that is something no-one at Gresley has got. He’s done a good job for us and I sympathise with the way he feels. I wish him well.”

Northwood was less polite about the week’s other departee from the Moat Ground – defender Carl Nicklin.

“Carl hasn’t done the business and it’s time we went our separate ways.”