Bridgwater ‘delighted’ as Poppies maintain promotion challenge
David Bridgwater declared himself 'delighted' after Kettering Town battled their way to a crucial 2-1 win over Redditch United at Latimer Park on Saturday.
The Poppies joint boss was pleased to see his side overcome a Redditch side he rates, and claim a win that sees them stay fourth in the Pitching-In Southern League Premier Central - seven points adrift of leaders Real Bedford with a game in hand.
Paul White saved an early Redditch penalty before goals from Blaine Rowe and Eddie Panter saw the Poppies open up a 2-0 lead.
Redditch then capitalised on an Ismael Fatadjo error to pull one back and set the nerves jangling among the home supporters, but Kettering saw out the game to secure a fourth win in five games.
"I am really delighted," said Bridgwater. "Redditch a good side, tough team to play against and they came and made it really difficult for us.
"They stuck to what they usually do which has been working for them, and although they are mid-table they have had some good results.
"They have some good players, and I thought we did well.
"The goal in the second half, just after the half-time, was a good goal and I had said to the players at half-time, the only way Redditch were going to win is if we allow them to win with mistakes.
"Ish then gave the ball away and the way we play we are a little bit expansive at times and they are going to get chances occasionally.
"I think Laws (D'Ath) has said man on and it has made Ish change his mind and the guy has nicked it off him, and they finished it well.
"Whitey obviously made that penalty save, and he has made another good one as well, so it was an exciting game for the neutral with plenty of goalmouth action.
"We defended well at times, because they cross the ball in a lot, but we dealt with that, we limited their chances and I think we were the better team over the 90 minutes."
Quotes courtesy of Peter Short