Match Report | Les Taylor

This was the first of three big tests with Barnoldswick Town and Blackpool Wren Rovers to follow. Last Saturday's goal hero, Simon Williams wasn't fit to take his place against second placed Freckleton which may have prompted manager, Somerside to change the system to 3-5-2.

A Cox free kick that sailed well over the bar after 20 minutes was the first shot at goal as the defences dominated the open exchanges and then Freckleton almost took the lead on 22 minutes when Watson headed over the bar at the far post. Garstang didn't heed the warning when, within minutes, Carey headed home from a similar position but fortunately for the visitors the goal was ruled out for pushing.

Garstang were finding it difficult to get any grip on the game; unable to retain any real possession. The hosts deservedly took the lead on 38 minutes, allbeit with a scruffy goal. A corner dropped right in the mix, no one could get the ball away and the ball finally ended up in the net off what looked like the head of centre back Horn. Garstang had a rare opportunity to level the scores following a free kick but Cummins sliced his shot wide.

The home team continued to dictate after the break with Burton and Watson in charge of the midfield. Baldwin replaced Cox after 57 minutes, which gave Garstang some impetus. An Ireland free kick caused some panic in the Freckleton penalty area, Wilson forcing the first real save from the Freckleton 'keeper at close range. After 75 minutes Kilifin and Butler replaced Ireland and Horton, who had both taken heavy knocks, but it was Freckleton who were creating the problems. Watson headed against the post before victory was secured in the 85th minute when substitute Spedding, who had only been on the pitch for minutes, unmarked, headed past Brindle.

It must be said that, after a run of good results, this game was somewhat of a reality check against one of the better sides in the league.

Garstang: Brindle, Cropper, Baker, McEvoy, R. Wilson, Fawcett, Cox, Cummins, Ireland, Horton and G. Wilson
Substitutes: M Baldwin (Cox), Butler (Ireland), Kilifin (Horton)
Freckleton: Woods, M.Halliday, Dickinson, K.Halliday, Horn, Watson, Dyson, Burton, Carey, Sugden, M.Fidler.
Substitutes:P.Fidler, Douthwaite, Spedding