Michael Burkey seals Bootle the win as The Bucks bounce back with a 2-1 win against Avro after coming back from 1-0 down.
By Brendan Doyle
Bootle started the half two fairly decent chances as Sean Smith’s shot from far range looked promising but was safely caught by Avro keeper Grant Shenton. The second came from a header by Jonny Spittle but flew just slightly over the crossbar.
A second chance also fell to Spittle from a corner but again just couldn’t find the target. Minutes later The Bucks were punished for their missed efforts as Avro’s Liam Ellis took an effort on the half volley which flew past Bootle keeper Alex Hughes putting the visitors in front with a fantastic strike on goal.
After Bootle were awarded a free kick from close range, Jack Lenehan stepped up once again and successfully smashed home a wonderfully struck free kick to put The Bucks level in the game. Bootle attempted to find their way into edging in front before half time as Ben Hodkinson’s effort deflected wide.
Mackenzie O’Neil had an attempted header but only ended up falling high and wide which would result in the first half ended a goal a piece.
Around 15 minutes into the second half Mackenzie O’Neil played a ball into the Avro area but only defender James Dwyer would find it and clearer any danger for Avro conceding a second goal. Jack Lenehan attempted another free kick strike to put Bootle ahead but was only met with the safe hands of Grant Shenton.
Bootle seemed to gain momentum throughout the half as Ben Hodkinson attempted a first time strike but would only find it’s way over, although minutes later Bootle keeper Alex Hughes would heroically prevent the visitors taking the lead after blocking Aaron Grewal’s one on one effort.
Benito Lowe also posed a threat with a shot towards Alex Hughes which fell just wide putting a scare into the game staying level. Two minutes later Conor Harwood almost became Bootle’s hero for the day with a headed attempt but was no danger for Grant Shenton.
After a tight game of missed chances from both sides, it would be super sub Michael Burkey who would save the day as his curled shot found the bottom corner after beating two Avro defenders sealing all three points for The Bucks.