Josh Galloway’s wonder strike mid-way through the second half secured a valuable 1-0 victory for Workington in their relegation encounter at Hyde United.
His 66th minute goal decided a tense, nervy encounter to maintain the Reds revival and extend their unbeaten run on the road to six matches.
And the win completed a league double over fellow strugglers, Hyde, who are now winless in five outings.
The first half, as a spectacle, was moderate at best and Workington’s new found resilience kept them in contention.
But Hyde could not convert any of the half-chances they created, and whilst Reds had the capability to improve after the break, the hosts lack of confidence became clearly evident after Galloway’s decider.
Dontai Gabidon looked the game’s liveliest performer during in the opening 45 minutes but it was not an afternoon for individual flair and the resolve of Workington’s back four, the combativeness of Isaac Whitehall and Brad Carroll in midfield and the pivotal role up front from the returning Matty Tymon turned the game in Workington’s favour.
Li-Bau Stowell had little to do in the home goal and Workington’s Alex Mitchell wasn’t too busy either.
Stowell made one fine save to tip over a well-struck Whitehall free-kick and Mitchell gathered a close-range effort from Tunde Owolabi without too much concern.
Hyde’s frustration was epitomised by Max Harrop’s contribution. He was yellow-carded soon after his introduction as a substitute then received a second booking, and a red, for barging Luke Ellis into the perimeter fence.
Workington’s first win at Ewen Fields for 16 years lifted them one place in the table to 19th but just six points separate the bottom six clubs.
Billy Barr will rest several of his first team squad for the Cumberland Cup semi-final versus Kirkoswald at Penrith on Tuesday, ahead of a very tough-looking encounter against title chasers, Hednesford Town at Borough Park on Saturday (3pm).
Hear Billy Barr’s verdict below:
And a disappointed Michael Clegg:
