Rothwell Town 1 - 5 Barking & East Ham

Having gone seven games without a win it was hoped that this game, against the team placed just one point and one place above Rothwell in the table, would bring a turn in fortunes. Despite having only two serious attacks in the first half, Barking converted both of these to hold a two-goal lead at half-time while Rothwell missed several good opportunities - a lesson that at this level, you'll be punished for not taking your chances.

Just ten minutes had passed when Barking took the lead through Wayne Vaughan, then Rothwell forced four corners in 15 minutes and the returning Kirk Master forced a super save from Tony Tucker in the visitors goal. But the failure to net the chances created was telling as Vaughan claimed his second goal shortly after - when a superb Joel Palmer pass found him unmarked and left him with an easy chance.

Rothwell tried to turn on the pressure after the break, but found themselves further behind when Palmer scored Barking's third. Just three minutes later (58), Vaughan completed his hat-trick with a tap-in at the far post. Liam Morris scored a consolation with 15 minutes remaining when Kevin Brooks headed a Steve Towers free-kick into the six-yard box. But it was not Rothwell's day as Liam Baptiste fired in with five minutes to go to complete a big defeat. Steve Towers then missed a penalty with two minutes to go in a game which will serve as a reminder of the importance of clinical finishing and resolute defending.

The Bones have the opportunity to respond positively tomorrow (Tues 22nd Nov) at Desborough Town in the NFA Hillier Senior Cup - k/o 7.45pm.

. Star Man .

Stuart Spencer