Rainworth too good for Clifton All Whites

A goal in each half by Craig Mitchell saw the Wrens record their sixth victory of the season after nine games played.

Having troubled Rainworth for most of the match, Ryan Smith scored Clifton's only goal of the game in the 61st minute.

The home side began the game on the strong foot seeing the majority of possession with Khyle Sargent pulling the strings early on.

The Wrens took the lead in the 14th min as they turned possession into substance by winning a penalty. Clifton's Sam Leggitt fouled Craig Mitchell, before Mitchell stepped up to convert from 12 yards.

Ten minutes later Rainworth came close to finding a second when Ryan Ingram volleyed just wide.

Four minutes a long-range strike from Joe Naylor was dragged narrowly wide.

Clifton should have punished Rainworth when Ryan Smith fired wide after being played clean through.

On the stroke of half-time Rainworth came agonisingly close to doubling their lead. A cross from Mitchell was met by debutant Tyreece Robinson who steered his header onto the inside of the post.

The second half started evenly with Ryan Ingram having a good chance early on, however Clifton keeper Danny James made a strong save at his near post.

Clifton found an equaliser in the 61st minute through Ryan Smith. A ball from the right settled nicely for Smith on the edge of the box who struck powerfully first time into the bottom corner.

Four minutes later Clifton missed a huge chance to take the lead when Warren Squires saved well in a one-on-one with Daryl Thomas.

Squires’ save would increase in importance a minute later as Rainworth again took the lead through Craig Mitchell. A lofted through ball from Ingram found Mitchell on the break who slotted home under the keeper.

Clifton almost found an equaliser late on as Kyle Stovell's shot was cleared off the line by Joe Naylor in the 88th minute. However, Rainworth were able to see out the final minutes to secure their sixth win of the season.