Bromsgrove Sporting ensured they would remain third in the league table on Saturday afternoon, with a gritty 2-1 win at Stratford Town.

Mikey Taylor continued his spectacular scoring tally for the season with a 13th minute header, before Christopher Wreh levelled the scoring with a right footed effort five minutes later.

On what was a tough pitch, Stratford defended resolutely, with plenty of bodies behind the ball, but Sporting's perseverance was duly rewarded in the 67th minute, as a Jak Hickman corner was headed in at the far post by Leon Broadhurst, as Sporting extended their unbeaten run to four games.

The first chance of note in the game was Taylor's opener; a short spell of Sporting pressure resulted in Richard Gregory putting in a pinpoint cross inside the area, which was wilfully headed home past a diving Sam Lomax in the Stratford goal.

However, the home side equalised soon after, as Wreh showed brute force to power his way through the defence, which allowed him to curl a effort towards goal that met the palm of Daniel Platt but just squeezed in.

The Rouslers almost regained the advantage in the 24th minute, as a rasping half volley from Gregory via a Hickman corner was booted clear off the line, preventing a certain goal in the process.

Six minutes into the second half, Wreh had a golden opportunity to double his, and Stratford's, tally for the afternoon, as he managed to slip the back line once again but had a one-on-one effort saved smartly by the feet of Platt.

Following this chance, Sporting enjoyed a lengthy spell of intense pressure and chances; with Will Shorrock and substitute Shaquille McDonald both having efforts on goal blocked away.

One of these McDonald efforts was diverted for a corner, which is the point when Stratford's resilience would eventually cave in - Hickman whipped in a delicious ball that Broadhurst got onto and met it with a powerful header, creating sheer pandemonium between both fans and players.

Stratford created very little thereafter, until the very last minute of the game, where they had a free kick from virtually the edge of the 18 yard box. Wreh stepped up to take it but his effort was rushed in truth, causing him to drag the shot comfortably wide from an outstanding position.

The final whistle blew just seconds later, which was greeted by noisy and passionate celebrations from the squad and the incredible travelling support.

From the Stratford Town website:

Stratford Town 1 Bromsgrove Sporting 2
by Kevin Hand

A battling Town lose out to Sporting

Match Report: Stratford Town v Bromsgrove Saturday 07 December 2019 3.00pm
BetVictor SLPDC fixture at the Arden Garages Stadium.
Stratford 1 Bromsgrove 2 HT (1-1)

In front of a large and enthusiastic crowd this was an enthralling game on a beautiful late autumn afternoon. Marvels were performed by Mark Bickley and his team of volunteers in preparing the pitch after yesterday’s heavy rain. And there was a much improved performance by the Town boys as they competed over the course of the whole ninety minutes.

Bromsgrove started with ex-Town lads Mikey Taylor and Richard Gregory with Kieren Westwood on the bench. For Stratford Jordan Clement and Kyle Ambris started at the expense of the departed Kyle McFarlane and Ravi Shamsi.

The opening exchanges were even with Wreh and Ambris combining well. This all changed on 13 minutes when out of nothing Gregory crossed to Taylor who headed home from 6 yards as he out-jumped the Town defence. The lead was not to last for long as Town pushed back. First Wreh broke through on the left and squared to Nabay to ‘score.’ No goal as Wreh was offside in the build up. Then Wilson played through Wreh who finished in style.

The rest of the half saw Town trading blow for blow as they matched promotion contenders Bromsgrove all over the park. Jordan Clement improved the midfield passing and it was good to see Kyle Ambris probing forward but also giving protection on Town’s right flank against the experienced Greg Mills. Mills was not to reappear for the second half!

Town continued to hold their own and the 51st minute saw them nearly take the lead. Wilson played through Wreh and goalkeeper, Daniel Platt, was brave in blocking Wreh’s shot with his legs. From the ensuing corner a Rowley drive from the edge of the box was blocked as Town upped the tempo. Bromsgrove then began to dominate possession and restored the lead on 67 minutes. A corner from the left was headed home emphatically by Broadhurst. There was discussion afterwards as to whether Lomax was impeded as Hickman’s floated cross reached Broadhurst.

Town continued to battle and nearly rescued a point in the dying moments. Wilson played in Wreh again and he was brought down on the edge of the area, Wreh took his own free kick and fired just wide as the Bromsgrove fans held their breath.

Next Saturday’s Hitchin game now takes on a greater significance and there is reason to be optimistic. This was a significantly improved performance and with possible news of the squad being strengthened it would be good to see a large Town crowd to support the boys. It definitely beats Christmas shopping or decorating the tree!<br><br>But screw your courage to the sticking place, and we’ll not fail. Macbeth Act1 Scene7

Attendance: 422

Man of the Match: Chris Wreh