RUGBY RETURN TO WINNING WAYS

A resolute defensive display and two pieces of late inspiration from Valley striker David Stone ensured Rugby a valuable win against local rivals Corby Town.

Valley finally picked up a league win since the visit to Cheshunt in October but it took the home side a long time to get going in this game.

The first half belonged to Corby despite an early surge from Rugby where Stone and Akin Aladetoun should have done better to give Valley the lead.

Martyn Margarson was forced to make acrobatic saves to keep Rugby in the game during the first half as the visitors pressured for a goal. Valley's re-united back three of Aaron Stringfellow, Delroy Gordon and captain Craig Herbert defended resiliently to keep the Steelmen at bay.

The second half saw Rugby emerge with more urgency with Aladetoun wasting a good chance after being put through by an exquisite Stone throughball.

Corby were not as strong in the second half and seemed to tire, but they could easily have taken the lead when the Steelmen capitalised on a midfielder error which saw Steve Deggin through on goal, but the striker screwed his effort wide.

Valley took the lead when Stone latched onto David Staff's lofted ball and cut the ball back perfectly for the oncoming substitute Alex Bolt, who did very well to steer a powerful shot low into the net from 18 yards.

Rugby doubled their lead late on when Stone again picked up the ball from the left before turning inside and sliding the ball home from 12 yards.

Full report to follow.

Valley Lineup: Margarson 7, Stringfellow 8, Morley 6, HERBERT 8*, Gordon 8, Breward 5, Edge 6, Musgrove 5, Aladetoun 5 (Pearson 6), Stone 7, Staff 6.
Subs Not Used: Kabongo, Harris,.
Bookings: Edge.
Sent Off: None.

Report by RTFC Online.