Bury Town were made to fight all the way for this narrow victory over relegated Aveley to keep in contention for a play-off place.
After an even opening few minutes Bury took an early lead through Billy Clark after only seven minutes. Clark received the ball just outside the box before beating two defenders and slipping the ball past Dave McCartney to score off the inside of the post.
The keeper then made a fine save to deny John Sands before the hosts settled down and forced Marcus Garnham into action, saving a deflected shot from Dee Okajie.
Aveley got back on terms after 18 minutes. Okajie worked his way to the byeline and cut the ball back for Kayan Kalipha to drive into the roof of the net from twelve yards. The play was then equally shared for much of the half, but Bury created the better chances with McCartney saving well from a Tom Bullard header and John Sands and Sam Reed both firing wide from good positions, and Sam Nunn heading over the bar in the closing minutes.
Half Time Aveley 1 Bury Town 1
Bury started the second half well, but failed to trouble McCartney despite having most of the play.
Aveley again fought back well and forced several free kicks outside the Bury box from which they were unable to create a clear chance.
The decisive goal came after 71 minutes, when Aveley conceded a needless free kick near the corner flag and Billy Clark delivered a precision cross from which John Sands flicked header found the net just inside the far post.
Aveley fought hard to restore parity, but the Bury defence held on comfortably to secure a very valuable three points.
Full Time Aveley 1 Bury Town 2 |
