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Missing men can't hamper Diamond

25/10/2001

BOLTON Road resembled the Bermuda Triangle on Saturday afternoon, as Diamond's Bury Amateur League clash with MBG almost went missing.

Out for the home side were Derek Bell, Mike Pollock and Dave Jeffries. Goalkeeper Andy Tyson opted once more to watch his beloved Manchester United rather than take the field himself. And history repeated itself as the Reds went down at home to Bolton - the last time Tyson stayed away being when Newcastle took all three points at St James Park.

More worryingly, the referee was also nowhere to be seen, leaving the MBG gaffer to stand in with the whistle.

But despite all the trials and tribulations beforehand, Ian McEvilly's men managed to garner the victory that keeps them in touch with the leaders.

Left back Paul Smith opened the scoring with a 40-yard volley but MBG equalised in similar fashion. With 45-year-old Paul Craven, in his first game for 14 months, running things in midfield, Diamond always looked the more likely and duly claimed the points when Darren McNamara banged home the winner in the 78th minute.

The action then moved on to the Albert Park in Lower Broughton for the club's third annual presentation evening. A 150-strong crowd saw Darren McNamara take the players' player of the year trophy and the manager's award go to Kevin Baison.

Chairman John Craven handed over the sportsmans prize to Rob Harwood and Brian Adams - who netted 33 times last season - was named leading goal scorer.

Secretary Dave Wilkinson and lottery organiser Pat Lockett were also honoured for their tireless work. Afterwards, Dave said: "It was an outstanding evening and a big thanks must go to Tony Ordish and Ian McEvilly for putting on a top show."

Pastures new beckon for Diamond in the Northern Football Cup. The draw for the first round pairs them with Wirral side Old Instonians, the tie due to be played pn Saturday, November 10.