Last minute winner keeps run going

It wasn’t the performance that fans have been used to in recent weeks, but Stevenage got the win they needed to continue their unbeaten run and stay in 4th position in the Blue Square Premier. A 93rd minute goal from Mark Roberts meant the Hertfordshire side took all 3 points back with them down the M6. Boro are now on a 10 game winning run and are becoming serious contenders for the play-offs, a position which looked very unlikely just a few months ago.

Westley was forced into two changes, with both Ronnie Henry and Darren Murphy missing out through injury. In came Mark Albrighton and Jon Ashton, with Michael Bostwick moving into midfield. Gary Mills was recalled into the 16, but didn’t come on. The changes seemed to affect Boro’s play early on and Altrincham took the lead on 22 minutes when Colin Little opened the scoring from the penalty spot. Little was felled by Roberts in the box and got up himself to give the Manchester side the lead. Boro weren’t clicking as they have done in previous weeks and found themselves under pressure for a lot of the first half. Things weren’t made any easier when Ashton was substituted for Lawrie Wilson with 10 minutes remaining in the half.

The second half was much the same and to be honest Altrincham should of extended their lead further before Boro started to find their fluency. The passing was becoming more crisp and Boro were beginning to create some chances, with Morison going close. It was looking like becoming just one of those days where nothing would go in for Boro, but with 20 minutes remaining, Stevenage got the goal they needed to level the scores. Andy Drury headed in after a free-kick was put in. The goal seemed to raise Boro’s spirits and they attacked with more verosity as they searched for a winner.

It didn’t look likely after missed chances from Bostwick, Vincenti and Morison, but deep into stoppage time, Boro did get the winner thanks to centre half Mark Roberts. The ex Northwich defender controlled  the ball at the edge of the box and fired in a shot which Coburn in the Altrincham goal was helpless to stop. A dramatic winner which would of done the team the power of good and raised spirits further. It’s important that the players are brought back down to earth so they are ready again for Tuesday night and the visit of Forest Green. Another 3 points is vital as the play-off push gathers momentium.