Ruben Jerome and James Walshaw scored in either half as Emley AFC moved six points clear at the top of the Northern Counties East League Premier Division.
The Pewits beat Tadcaster Albion 2-0 at the Fantastic Media Welfare Ground on Saturday as nearest challengers Campion went down 5-2 at Penistone Church in what could be a pivotal weekend in the title race. Emley still have two games in hand.
In the first half Sam Pashley had a header saved before Jerome’s header from an Alex Metcalfe free-kick had the keeper beaten but a defender swept in to clear off the line.
Jerome broke the deadlock five minutes before half-time when Iyrwah Gooden beat the on-rushing keeper to lob the ball into the box for Jerome to burst between three defenders to finish from close range.
It was 1-0 to Emley at the break and the hosts were good value for the lead despite not being at their best.
Jerome was forced off the pitch 20 minutes into the second half when he went down off the ball and needed attention. There were no chances taken and he was replaced by Paul Walker.
Shortly after Emley doubled the lead when Metcalfe drove a cross into a crowded penalty box and Walshaw scored with a cheeky back flick.
From then on Emley were in control and Metcalfe had a chance but slipped at the vital moment and Nathan Curtis had a deflected effort strike the post late on.
Emley’s next game is against Barton Town at the Fantastic Media Welfare Ground on Saturday February 24 (3.00).
Main image by: MARK PARSONS
