Selston turn up the heat with big win at the top

Before kick-off, the club paid tribute to two much-loved figures, unveiling a stand in honour of Ivan Williamson and Pete Housley, whose tireless work behind the scenes helped shape the club over many years — a fitting and emotional moment for all in attendance.

On the pitch, Manager Lee Stevenson rotated his squad, bringing in Moore, England, Hardman and Hawkins for Bowering, Batterham, Layton and Hines.

In difficult conditions on a hard, bouncing surface, both sides initially struggled to find rhythm. Selston created the first real opportunity, with Jake Payling forcing a strong save from Prims goalkeeper Morley. As the half progressed, Selston began to assert control, with Cockram, Reynolds and the lively Hawkins driving the team forward.

Their pressure paid off on the stroke of half-time. Excellent work down the left from Hawkins produced a pinpoint cross, which Jordan Black met with a glancing header into the far corner to give Selston a deserved lead.

Selston continued on the front foot after the break, with Hardman and Black both going close before the latter doubled the lead. A cross from the right by Reynolds deflected kindly into Black’s path, and he made no mistake from close range to make it 2–0.

With a cup final looming, Stevenson utilised his squad, introducing Bland and Hines on 68 minutes, followed by Layton and Bowering on 78. Haywood was also introduced late on to help see the game out.

Selston remained in control and sealed the victory deep into stoppage time. With Prims pushing forward, a long clearance released Hines, who combined neatly with Bland before finishing calmly from 12 yards.

The final whistle confirmed a superb 3–0 win, moving Selston to within two points of the league leaders with three games in hand — a perfect end to a memorable day at The Parish.

Manager Lee Stevenson said, “It’s been a brilliant day for the football club, both on and off the pitch. The tribute before the game meant a lot to everyone connected with Selston, and it was important we followed that up with a performance to match.

“I thought the lads were outstanding in really tough conditions. We showed patience, quality, and discipline against a very good side. To win 3–0 in a game like that is a huge statement.

“Jordan took his goals really well and was a constant threat, but the performance across the team was excellent — from front to back.

“We’re in a strong position now, but we stay grounded. There’s still work to do, and our focus quickly turns to the cup final. The lads are ready for it.”