On a bitterly cold March night, Oakwood A's victory over Pace Panthers brought them to within one win of becoming Tyro Division One Champions for the first ever time.

It was a hard fought game but the damage to Pace's efforts was done early on as Newman bagged a hat trick inthe first half.

A great run by House saw the 'keeper make a good save but the ball rebounded out to Newman who made sure with a firmly struck shot.

Newmans' second goal came courtesy of a decision by the linesman, Newman headed a cross against the bar and the ball bounced down onto the line then in a scramble Newman shot again and this time the ball crashed against the post, in the ensuing melee Pace defenders managed to clear their lines, but the Pace linesman flagged to signal that the ball had originally crossed the line ( a very sporting gesture from the opposition linesman).

Newmans hat trick came as Burt released a lovely through ball to Newman who exploded over 10 yards outpacing defenders and unleashing a superb volley past the 'keeper.

The second half saw Pace control much of the game and the Oakwood defence was put under pressure and Pace were unlucky not to score on a number of occasions.

House broke clear and fed Burt whose shot went close.

Burt's lovely floated corner then saw a tremendously powerful header from Crisp get headed of the line.

Chances were few and far between for both sides and the game developed into a midfield tussle with both sides having an equal share of the possesion.

Although Oakwood's performance seemed a little subdued this was certainly due in part to the determination and efforts of the Pace boys who battled on to the end.

Written by Paul Griffiths