Underwood strikes as Railway claim much-needed victory on the road at Clipstone

Josh Underwood’s second-half header ensured that Marlon Adams’ men remain outside the NCEL Premier Division relegation zone for the time being, one point ahead of Hall Road Rangers, but having played four games more.

The fixture was a must-win for the Starbeck outfit, not only because of their league position, but also due to the fact that Clipstone’s young side have endured the most difficult of seasons, losing 36 of their 38 league games before this weekend’s clash.

Yet it was the Cobras, with just two points to their name in 2017/18, who took the lead with six minutes gone when Jermaine Jatau converted from the penalty spot.

The Railwaymen’s reply was however instantaneous, captain Lincoln Adams equalising barely 60 seconds later following a corner that was delivered low into the box.

Ernest Boafo looked set to give the visitors the lead before half-time when he ran through on goal and fired past the Clipstone keeper, only to see his effort rebound off a post.

The hosts remained very much in the game, but Railway did eventually grab a decisive second goal, striker Underwood heading home substitute Max Thirlwall’s cross in the 64th minute to register his first strike for the club since joining from West Yorkshire League side Hampsthwaite United.

The Rail are back in action tonight (Monday) when they travel to fourth-placed Handsworth Parramore, 7.45pm kick-off.