BOLTON men’s first team rose to second in North West Division Three South after ending the unbeaten run of Buxton, writes Phil Meachin.

It was always going to be a tight encounter with Bolton heading into the clash as the league’s top scorers and second-placed Buxton having the meanest defence.

Buxton started strongly putting pressure on the Bolton backline, however they were unable to break down a disciplined defence.

Bolton soon got into the game winning a number of short corners after some fantastic two-touch hockey.

However top scorer Rob Lord was unable to convert.

But, with 10 minutes to go in the first half, Tom Dutoy broke into the Buxton area and with some skilful play won Bolton another penalty corner. Lord was this time able to drag the ball into the top corner giving Bolton a 1-0 lead at half time.

The second half was equally tight with neither team able to forge any clearcut opportunities.

With 15 minutes left and not having had a shot on goal up to this point, Buxton made the brave decision to substitute their goalkeeper for another centre forward.

This did eventually lead to Buxton having their one and only shot of the game, however also presented Bolton a couple of opportunities which they were also unable to convert.

Bolton ended up deserved winners and, in the process, leapfrogged Buxton into the promotion places, with one of their most professional performances in many years.