Howard hits century

Josh Howard scored FC United’s 100^th league goal as the reds overcame a resilient Norton United in almost Arctic conditions at Vale Park.

Norton were hoping to become the first team to do the double over United, but there was no repeat performance of their shock last gasp victory at Gigg Lane back in September.

In fact it was United’s turn to put on a late show and snatch victory with two goals in the last ten minutes. Howard got the first after 25 minutes as United took the lead, but they were pegged back in the 68^th minute when Grice grabbed an equaliser for the hosts.

It looked like the reds were heading for their second frustrating one all draw in a row until the 81^st minute when Steve Torpey popped up to hit his 15^th goal of the season. And there was enough time for an own goal in the 83^rd to seal victory sending the majority of the 1,284 supporters home happy with another three points in the bag.

After the match Manager Karl Marginson hailed Joz Mitten’s introduction as a substitute for Rory Patterson as the turning point in the match. He said: "He changed the game. He gave us an extra dimension, he caused all sorts of problems and played really well."

To read Margy’s full reaction to the match and more click here. Full in depth match report by Wayne Clarke to follow.