Ste Whitley’s late stunning solo goal sealed a dramatic home win as FC Isle of Man came from behind to beat South Liverpool
The win ended a three-game run without victory in the North West Counties Football League Premier Division.
South Liverpool drew first blood in the early stages when Sam Mullally climbed highest to nod home from a corner, giving the visitors a deserved lead and settling into the contest’s opening rhythm.
Despite falling behind, the home side responded with renewed vigour. In the 39th minute, Whitley rifled a well-struck effort from the edge of the box past the goalkeeper to level the scores.
Just six minutes later, Rick Holden’s side completed the turnaround before half-time as Shaun Kelly bundled home from close range after a cross from Jacob Crook, giving the Ravens a 2–1 advantage going into the break.
The second half began with South Liverpool on the front foot and they drew level early on when Neil Weaver caught Adam Killey off his line and scored a sublime lob.
From there it was almost one-way traffic as the Ravens went hunting for a winner, coming close from Crook, Pinnginton, Whitley and Callum Sherry.
However, with just minutes left on the clock, it was Whitley who proved decisive.
Collecting the ball out wide, Whitley danced through two challenges and skipped past a third defender before unleashing a stunning 30-yard effort into Lucas Allan’s top right-hand corner.
While Whitley stole the headlines, it was a solid all round performance from Rick Holden’s side right through from keeper Killey to striker Kelly with the second half in particular showing the attacking quality of a team that will only improve with top scorer Charlie Higgins due to return from suspension this coming week.
The victory lifts the Ravens up to 19th in the NWCFL Premier Division ahead of Wednesday’s trip to Atherton LR.
