Barton go top after Woodford victory

Barton Rovers made it two wins out of two with a 2-0 triumph at Woodford United in their Evo-Stik Southern League Division One Central encounter on Tuesday night.

The visitors bossed the early moments, with Nat Peacock, promoted to a starting role after his excellent substitute appearance on Saturday, looking dangerous.

The deadlock was finally broken on 31 minutes when man of the match Peacock went down in the box and referee Lee Forrester pointed to the spot.

Woodford’s appeals failed to unsettle Jermaine Hall who powerfully drove high into the corner.

Barton continued to attack after the break and doubled their lead on 55 minutes when captain Tommy Hull launched a long throw into the danger area and Peacock was first to react, swivelling and firing a low drive into the net.

Substitutes David Parkinson, Rhys Hoenes and Colm Keirans were introduced as the home side were reduced to balls over the top that were confidently repelled

Rovers were reduced to 10 men with a minute to go when Parkinson’s petulant and rash challenge saw him sent off.

The home side proceeded to throw everything at Barton but left gaps at the back and Peacock was only thwarted by excellent anticipation from keeper Jamie Brassington.

Rovers beat Chertsey Town 3-0 at home on Saturday thanks to James Bent’s penalty and a double from Peacock.

The Blues go to Staines Lammas in the preliminary round of the FA Cup on Saturday and entertain Royston Town in the league on Bank Holiday Monday, kick off 7.45pm.