Prestwich made a long-awaited return to winning ways with a comfortable three goal victory at the Essa Academy.
The opening exchanges were fast and frantic in a tight midfield. Both sides scrapped for early dominance. It was Prestwich that missed the game’s first big chance when Holden was unable to convert Gibson’s pinpoint cross inside the six-yard box.
However, it was the same combination that would give Prestwich the lead mid-way through the first half. The Prestwich full back rifled in one of his trademark long throws and Holden astutely flicked a header towards the far post and into the net.
Prestwich were dominant now. Steadman and Beaumont were providing a physical base for the team at centre backs and the visitors were launching attacks down the flanks at a regular basis after a tactical reshuffle with the versatile Wheaton and Miguel switching roles.
Soon after it was two nil. A period of sustained pressure in and around the Wyresdale box was ended by a superb piece of skill by Steven Charles. Swivelling on the edge of the box and hitting a low drive into the corner to put Prestwich in full control. Wheaton claimed a final touch, but it was Charles who deserved the accolades of his teammates.
Just before the break, the game changed completely when Wyresdale were reduced to 10 men. Barlow was caught very late by a heavy challenge and in the ensuing melee, the home player was sent off after being accused of raising his arms towards Steadman.
Bolton fought bravely in the second half, but they were undone after 50 minutes by an outstanding individual goal by Lewis Smith. The Prestwich man hit a rocket from 25 yards, crashing into the net off the post for extra effect. Smith had been central to Prestwich’s play and deserved his goal.
The final half an hour was a fairly sloppy affair, but Prestwich were delighted to collect a vital three points and a clean sheet in the process.
Next up for Prestwich on Saturday 20th November is a home game against Chaddertonians at Hopwood Hall M24 6XH with a 2.00pm KO.
BOLTON WYRESDALE (A) GALLERY
By Leo Michaelovitz
