By John Baron
Farsley Celtic continued their fine start to the season thanks to a superb late Danny Greenfield winner at National League North newcomers Market Needham.
The injury-hit Celts have recorded a creditable four points from two games since sacking head coach Clayton Donaldson and assistant Danny Ellis on Monday evening – and new gaffer Pav Singh will be pleased with his side’s application and points tally.
Farsley loanee goalkeeper Darryl Ombang made an awkward early save from Jamie McGrath’s curled effort as the hosts edged the early exchanges.
Danny Greenfield then tested Cullum in Needham’s goal with a free kick but the goalkeeper parried the shot away. Ryan Watson then saw a shot from distance swerve just wide of Needham’s left-hand post.
A fairly even first half then saw The Celts come the closest to scoring. A superb passing move started on the right before the ball was slickly moved across the penalty area to Bailey Sloane, whose powerful shot rattled off the underside of the bar to safety.
Needham dominated for long periods of the second half, Jacob Lay hitting the side netting from a tight angle when through on goal. And on 65 minutes a goalmouth scramble saw The Celts’ goal lead a charmed life as the hosts pressed.
On 82 minutes the visitors took the lead – and it was a second great strike in two games by the influential Danny Greenfield. The attacking midfielder scored a brilliant individual goal on Tuesday to help earn his side a point at Southport and the former Spennymoor talisman made his mark again.
Greenfield picked up possession from a throw-in to find the bottom left-hand corner with a superb strike from outside the box which left the Needham keeper rooted to the spot.
The travelling Celts, facing their eighth successive league game on the road due to stalled work on replacing The Citadel’s pitch, withstood some late pressure and seven minutes of injury time to hold on for a win which sends them up to eighth in the league.
They sit just outside the playoff places with with a decent return of 13 points from eight straight away games which include four wins and a draw.
At the final whistle the Farsley Celtic players came over to thank the travelling fans for making the near 400-mile round trip from West Leeds. It was a gesture much appreciated by the supporters.
Boss Pav Singh will be pleased to come away with four points from two tough away matches since Donaldson’s dismissal as head coach. The two games have highlighted the professionalism and togetherness of a playing squad, which has been stretched by injuries to the likes of Rudy Misambo, Lewis Turner, Aiden Walker, Tom Wooster and DJ Campton-Sturridge.
Reaction
Gaffer Pav Singh praised the players, coaches and support staff after the win.
He said: “I couldn’t be prouder of everyone involved. This victory isn’t just about the players on the pitch; it’s about the incredible work done behind the scenes by the entire team.
“A massive thank you to Chris Atkinson and the coaching and analysis team for your dedication and relentless drive. Your hard work and belief in what we can achieve have been outstanding. The players have been unbelievable and yes, it’s what Danny [Greenfield] does, [he’s a] special player with special goals, he’s our magician.
“Our amazing fans who made two long away trips to support us—your passion and loyalty means everything. Those hugs I received today from the fans after the match are moments I will treasure for a long time. And to Izzy, our Women’s Manager, your emotional embrace and heartfelt thanks reminded me how much this club means to all of us.
“A special thanks as well to our chairman and directors, whose belief and support keep us pushing forward.
“It’s been a tough journey, but with the backing of our management, players, fans, and everyone connected to the club, we will continue to show that Farsley togetherness. We’ll strive to get better for our community, and this win is just the start.”
Assistant coach and club captain Chris Atkinson praised his side’s effort and spirit:
Line up:
Farsley Celtic: Ombang; Hyde, Allan, Branson (C), Assenso (Fox, 65), Sloane; Watson, Leverett (Mampala, 54), B Atkinson, Greenfield; Stephenson. Unused subs: Fielding, Youmbi, Kiwomya.
Next game:
The Celts take a break from league action and travel to Sheffield for an FA Cup qualifying tie at Hallam FC next Sunday, 15 September (2pm).
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