SEAN Hanley and Dan Ridge scored as Bracknell Town beat Brackley Town Saints 2-1 at Larges Lane on Saturday to secure their first Hellenic Premier win of the season, writes Dave Wright.

And, following on from their first point which came with a 3-3 draw at Milton last Tuesday, the Robins lifted themselves off the foot of the Premier Division – relegating local rivals Wokingham & Emmbrook to bottom spot on goal difference.

For both scorers, they were their first senior goals for the club.

Brackley played some neat football, moving the ball around well, but they overdid the close passing game, going sideways a bit too often. They also lost out to their opponents in the aerial battles.

Bracknell were more direct with Shane Cooper-Clark and Martin Bradshaw a constant threat. Leading scorer Cooper-Clark had the power and vision, while wide-man winger Bradshaw combined his pace with dangerous crosses into the area.

Bradshaw set up the opening goal after 16 minutes. The ball bobbled about in the goalmouth before centre back Hanley forced it over the line.

The Robins continued to probe and twice went close before doubling their lead just before half time.

James King, Ridge, Cooper-Clark and Bradshaw were all involved and the latter’s cross was headed home by unmarked midfielder Ridge.

Brackley threatened more in the second half and Ryan Knight struck the underside of the crossbar. After making three substitutions, the promoted Oxfordshire side enjoyed their best spell.

The Robins, with Hanley excellent, kept them at bay until three minutes from time when sub Henry Jackson was first to react after a Matt Hammond drive came back off the woodwork. But the hosts held on to secure the win.

Robins host Division One East side Chinnor in the Hellenic Challenge Cup this Saturday (3pm).