By Lisa Towerzey

Reds slip to only third defeat in last 12 National League North away games.

Alfreton Town fell to only their fourth defeat from 16 National League North games when they visited Boston United on Tuesday (November 1) night.

For the travelling supporters it was a disappointing night with few positive moments – indeed the video crew at the Jakeman’s Community Stadium did well to conjure up three and a half minutes of highlights – for the hosts though it was a vital rare win in a troubled season.

Scott Pollock scored the decisive goal as the clock ticked into the 49th minute, sliding the ball past Reds’ keeper George Willis after referee Abigail Byrne had plated a good advantage to allow a cross from the right.

The closest either side came to scoring before the break was Pollock’s cross, triggering mayhem in the six-yard box before the ball was smuggled behind for a corner.

Matt Rhead twice went close for the Reds and Bailey Hobson fired wide from distance as home keeper Sam Long remained untested.

Willis needed to be alert to deal with a 65th minute effort by Sam McLintock, then at the other end Hobson went close for Alfreton.

Long was by far the busier keeper as the Reds pushed forward in the last 10 minutes, George Cantrill’s header saved with a degree of comfort before Tom Denton’s firm header from an Adam Lund throw was clutched at close range.

Rhead was to see two further headers held by Long, whilst Willis saved well from Jordan Crawford, but there was to be no addition to the score-line.