Bemused Bestwood sinking down the table

WHERE has all the early-season promise gone? That is the question haranguing BESTWOOD MINERS WELFARE (SATURDAY) after another poor performance in the Uhlsport Notts Senior League, Senior Division.

Bestwood won their first three matches, including one against local-derby rivals Linby Colliery Welfare, to fuel manager Jez Corthorn's hopes of a top-five finish.

But a 1-0 defeat at home to also-rans Magdala Amateurs means they have taken only one point from their last 18 and now sit closer to the BOTTOM five.

Sensing Bestwood's lack of confidence, Magdala were positive from the start and forced numerous corners.

In the first half, they struggled to break the locals down but, by the same token, Bestwood's own attacks were few and far between as they struggled to find any sort of rhythm.

Magdala continued to dominate in the second period and took a deserved lead on the hour when a cross from the flank found an unmarked Broadbent to net from 12 yards.

The goal appeared to kick Bestwood into life and they created enough chances not only to save the game but also to win it.

But Kyle McDermott, Simon Marlow, who had a free header well saved, and new signing, former Hucknall Town Under-19s midfielder Ian Paterson, all failed to hit the target and Magdala should have sewn up the points late on but were equally wasteful.

BESTWOOD LINE-UP (3-4-3) – Waters/ Hulme S. Hulme P. Harrison T./ Diver Gibson Wass Potter/ Marlow S. Dawkins A. McDermott. Subs: Stevenson, Paterson, Shaw A.