Buxton entertained the crowd with fast-flowing football against visiting Rushall Olympic and two first-half goals lifted all three points by a 2-0 scoreline, Saturday September 7. The outstanding Josh Popoola set up both goals, with crosses for Tommy Elliott after 29 minutes and Connor Kirby seven minutes into stoppage time, both scoring from close range.
Fifteen minutes were added to the first half, due to a series of injuries, involving players from both sides. This affected the flow of the game, but Buxton continued to attack and cause Rushall defensive problems, in both halves. The visitors had their chances but couldn't convert them. Connor Kirby missed a late penalty after the Rushall captain was sent off for a last-man foul on substitute Djavan Pedro.
The Bucks welcomed back striker Diego De Girolamo for a first game of the season and his nimble footwork had the ball in the net in the 18th minute, only to see the referee blow for an earlier foul. There was also a debut for defender Finn Delap, on loan from Burton Albion. Finn is the son of Rory, famed for pioneering the long throw-in during his career with Stoke City, and brother of Liam, currently scoring goals for Premier League outfit Ipswich Town. Full Match Report HERE
Team manager John McGrath was pleased by the performance and result. After the game he said: "Two goals, three points. Nice to have the success. We didn't let the stoppages halt our flow.
"Goals creator Josh had a great game, unfortunately picking up a second-half injury, and it was good to have front man Diego back. He is a quality goal-scorer who also holds the ball up really well. But it's all about a squad, including Academy lads who are coming through. Now for the FA Cup."
The Bucks entertain Barwell in the Emirates FA Cup second qualifying round on Saturday, kick off 3pm.
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