Depleted Moors stand firm to clinch victory

Oct 20 2011

Solihull Moors FC 3 Grantham Town FC 2

TEN man Moors held out for a 3-2 win at Damson Park on Saturday to reach the fourth qualifying round of the FA cup for only the second time in the club’s history.

Solihull took a 2-0 lead thank to debutant JJ Melligan and Richard Walker.

Moors let their lead slip when keeper Jasbir Singh got a hand to a weak shot from Paul Grimes, which, according to the referee, rolled over the line.

In the second-half, Town equalised on 59 minutes, but with 20 minutes to go Michael Blackwood scored to make it 3-2.

Solihull went down to 10 men as Richard Walker, complaining about being denied a penalty, was shown a straight red card.

Moors manager Marcus Bignot said: “It’s going well. It’s been a welcome relief. It’s good for confidence, so far so good.”

Tomorrow (Saturday) Moors are away to Nuneaton Town in the league, KO 3pm.

Moors are still bottom of the Blue Square North, having played 12, lost nine, drawn one and won two.

Can Moors replicate their form in the cup, in the league?

“That’s what we’re always hoping for,” Bignot said. “You go out to win whatever happens. If we can replicate that everyone will be happy.”

“It’s difficult when there’s three points at stake. I think the fans will be happy with what they’ve seen. I think we’re getting that balance of youth and experience right.”

Bignot added: “Nuneaton is going to be a difficult game. They are always there or thereabouts at the end of the season. They are a big club with big support.

“Hopefully we’ll have a new centre forward signed in time.”