FC Nelson has made a great start to its latest bid to win promotion to the Southern Football League, winning 3-2 in North Canterbury this afternoon.
But coach Paul Brydon admitted he was fearing the worst when his side went a goal down to Waimak United, in the opening minute of its play-off match at Kendall Park in Kaiapoi.
And when the home side went 2-nil up after 15 minutes it was shaping as a long road trip home tonight.
However last season’s club player of the year TJ Hansen then scored from a penalty and when he struck again from open field, it was all locked up 2-all at half-time.
Phun Lian grabbed the match winner in the 68th minute and the visitors then clung to their advantage in chilly conditions.
“Although Waimak had more possession, we had more chances and probably should have won by more,” said a delighted FC Nelson Coach.
Winning on the road, also justifying the club’s decision to making the long return trip on the one day.
FC Nelson will now host Waimak in the return leg at Guppy Park next Saturday afternoon and if it is successful, will go on to face Wanaka in Christchurch.
