Leader comes back to haunt Raiders

Mark Leader came back to haunt his former club as Norstar claimed a rare win against Raiders at Brunel.

Further strikes from Zak McLeod and an own goal sealed Norstar's second win of the season.

David Dinkin bagged a brace for Raiders.

It was a remarkable match. Using a brand new 3-5-2 formation, Norstar dominated the first half but failed to convert several good chances and went in 0-0 at half time.

Norstar forged ahead in second half with a bullet header from a corner from Leader. They continued to push and when Jonny Kay skinned three of Raiders defenders down the left, the fourth resorted to scything him down in the box. The penalty was converted by McLeod who was simply outstanding as a right wing back.

Dinkin pulled a goal back with 10 minutes left and equalised from the spot with five to go. Then Norstar keeper Ben Sheldon was dismissed for dissent but his team's reaction was superb and with the last kick of the game a long throw was bundled into the Raiders net for an own goal.

Norstar assistant-manager Jamie Slavin, who took charge in the absence of Phil Peters, told JC Sport: "When Raiders pulled back level it felt that 80 minutes of dedication, commitment and hard work would mean nothing and it would just be another one of those days that's summed up our season. But the reaction of the lads was superb.

"It's been a tough few months but we still believe we can drag ourselves out of the drop zone. Three more performances like today and we give ourselves a chance."

Disappointed Raiders boss Rob Richman told JC Sport: "Full credit to Norstar who were well worthy of the win. Despite coming back from two goals down and Norstar scoring with the last kick of the game, they fully deserved to win the game and get the three points.

"Norstar played with effort, desire and a lot of passion something that was somewhat missing from my team today. Our good run for the last couple of months has come to an end and it is important we react in the correct manner to this disappointment."

DC Prediction: Raiders 3 Norstar 1

MY Prediction: Raiders 3 Norstar 1