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Sorry Celts hammered

31/12/2001

SOCCER: Hereford Utd 3 Stalybridge 0

Spluttering Stalybridge got what they deserved even with the home side being reduced to ten men mid-way through the second half.

At a bitterly cold Edgar Street, Paul Futcher's men were undone by two first half goals in as many minutes.

Firstly, Gavin Williams was allowed to chase down a loose ball before firing home via a wicked deflection, then Jon Snape doubled the advantage after a neat one-two.

Tony James then put a penalty wide of goal on the half hour after Chris Perkins had upended Paul Parry, but the Celts showed signs of life after the break before United's Scott Goodwin saw red following two bookings.

However, Rob Elmes sealed Celtic's fate with a close-range header leaving the New Year's Day clash with Leigh to take the mantle of another huge six-pointer for the Bower boys.

Celtic have been left stunned by the sudden departure of keeper Jason Batty.

The experienced Kiwi decided to return to his native New Zealand after just three months at Bower Fold.

On Saturday Paul Futcher's men must fancy their chances with a home game against rock bottom Scarborough.

Meanwhile, Hyde United won 2-0 at Burscough thanks to second half goals from Leadbetter and Simon Yeo.

Glossop North End pulled off a 3-1 win at Atherton LR with goals from Prest and Wild (2).