Richmond must have wondered how they never managed to take at least a share of the spoils from last night’s visit to Windscale in the Wearside League.
The Atoms weren’t at their best against their lively opponents but eventually claimed a 2-0 victory.
Richmond started strongly, taking the game to the home team but were unable to penetrate a resolute Windscale defence.
The visitors had the lion’s share of the play, yet the Atoms still created a few chances utilising the pace of Ben Graham and Dean Fox. These either fizzled out due to lack of support or slick defensive work by the Richmond back line.
Windscale eventually gained the lead in the 34th minute following a free-kick 25 yards out on the right. Graham floated the ball to the far post where Reece Fretwell, towering over everyone, sent a powerful header into the back of the net.
The lead was almost doubled a minute from half time. Graham evaded the Richmond defence to fire in a shot from the edge of the penalty area leaving Sam Hebden-Rich relieved to see the ball strike his right hand post and rebound back into play where it was eventually cleared up field.
The second period was a replica of the first half. Richmond always provided the majority of attacking play but were unable to penetrate the Windscale defence marshalled superbly by man of the match Ryan Byrne.
The Atoms still looked dangerous on the break but again, fell short through lack of support when scoring opportunities were presented.
The final score came courtesy of Graham as the referee had the whistle in his mouth to blow for full-time. His shot struck the underside of the bar and then into the goal, to double the winning margin.
The three points allowed Windscale to move into 8th place above Richmond in the table and the Atoms have games in hand over the teams above them.
Windscale take on Wolviston in the Monkwearmouth Cup at the Falcon Complex this Saturday, with a 2.30pm kick-off.
