North Ferriby United 1, Bradford Park Avenue 2

Bradford Park Avenue stayed in touch with the Evo-Stik League Premier Division play-off pack by banking their first-ever victory at North Ferriby United.

The visitors had to come from a goal down against their better-placed rivals but the win was sealed by Aidan Savory after coming off the bench.

With Avenue boss John Deacey only landing new signing Henry McStay late on Friday, he decided to remain with Adam Clayton filling in alongside James Knowles in the centre of defence.

Avenue were the better side in the opening half hour but the nearest they came to scoring was a shot on the turn by Tom Greaves. The leading scorer executed the move well but placed his effort too close to the home keeper.

That miss allowed Ferriby to take the lead through talisman striker Gary Bradshaw in the 36th minute.

Avenue full back Martin Drury picked up a yellow card as he conceded a free-kick. The ball was delivered into the area diagonally and headed on but Avenue keeper John Lamb got his hands to it. Unfortunately it hit the woodwork before dropping to the feet of former Yeovil forward Bradshaw and he poked home.

The visitors were level by the break as they snatched an equaliser a minute before half-time. Drury redeemed himself by playing a good through-ball to Greaves, who then used his pace to get into the area before drilling a shot into the corner.

Having started with Matty James up front alongside Greaves, Avenue had to begin the second period with Savory in attack. James had taken a heavy knock in the first half and failed to come out after the break.

A later change was also significant as Liam Shepherd made way for Brice Tiani in the 68th minute and he set up the winner just under ten minutes later. A precise through-ball by the midfielder picked out Savory and he netted.

Avenue chairman John Dean said: “It was a really good result and, I feel, a key one in the context of the season. But we have to continue with the recent form – that is three wins on the trot now – if we are going to get into the play-offs.

“We face Northwich Victoria at Horsfall tomorrow night and then Ferriby again next Saturday, so these games are all important if we are to remain in the mix.”

There will be doubts for tomorrow after Drury also had to come off injured after James and Shepherd had departed.

But Nicky Boshell will be available again after serving his one-match ban and McStay may make a start after replacing Drury late in the second half.