MATTHEW Turner was the hero at the HDanywhere Community Stadium on Saturday as he struck late on to secure Malvern Town a 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Sporting Community.
It looked like it was going to be another frustrating afternoon for Town’s supporters on Saturday as they saw their side miss several chances.
But with two minutes left on the clock, Turner fired home to clinch Malvern their first win since defeating Wednesfield on Tuesday, September 2.
Malvern were determined to end their disappointing run of results with victory over struggling Wolverhampton, but they struggled to find a way past Samuel Benton.
They were also guilty of wasteful finishing as James Lush, Sam Rathbone and Kirk Layton all missed great opportunities to give their side the lead in the opening period.
The hosts were producing some good football, though, and it was a superb move which almost led to the breakthrough on the 22nd minute. Turner, Dan Herbert and Lush were all involved before Chris Allen’s strike was deflected onto the upright.
The second half continued in the same vein, with Malvern putting their opponents under heavy pressure. But they were still unable to find the finishing touch as Turner twice failed to hit the target.
It did not appear to be Town’s day as Dave Reynolds’ shot just went over the bar before Layton’s superb half volley from 35 yards was saved by Benton.
But in a frenetic final five minutes Malvern got their reward. After home keeper Charles Weaver stopped Roman Gayle, who was put through one-on-one, the ball was quickly sent upfield. Town broke away and after Turner’s first shot was saved he followed up to score from an acute angle.