Tamworth 2Vauxhall Motors 0

INJURY-RAVAGED Motors put in a spirited performance in their penultimate game of the season but Blue Square North leaders Tamworth were just too strong.

The Motormen started brightly but the finishing touch evaded them.

The game burst into life in the 27th minute when evergreen former Nottingham Forest defender Des Lyttle hit a 25-yard screamer which flew into the top corner, way beyond the reach of Motor’s keeper James Coates.

Carl Macauley’s side continued to play neat football but fell further behind nine minutes later when defender Tom Hannigan lost his footing, allowing Nick Wright to pounce.

He rounded Coates and stroked the ball into the empty net.

After the break the Motormen again had plenty of possession as the huge home crowd, despite their team’s two-goal advantage, became a little nervous. Returning from injury, Motors striker Karl Noon broke free from his marker but fired wide of the goal with only the keeper to beat.

Then Hannigan and Chris Noone had shots blocked before Mattie Burke had an effort charged down in the final few minutes.

Vauxhall: Coates, Holmes, Dames, Hannigan, Griffiths, Noone, Holden, Burke, Noon, Field, Furlong. Subs: Egerton, C Macauley, S McAuley.

Attendance: 1,012

On Saturday the Motormen bring down the curtain on their most successful Blue Square North campaign ever when they entertain King’s Lynn (3pm) at the Motassist Arena.

All children under 16 will be admitted free of charge and there will be a special welcome for the members of the original Vauxhall Motors works team of 1963 who were tracked down earlier this season with the help of the Pioneer.