The journey up the M1 last night was far sweeter than the previous Saturday thanks to Francis Green 72nd minute winner against Dagenham & Redbridge. It was due reward for a battling performance that secured Keith Alexander his first league win since taking over the reigns at the Moss Rose.
In blustery conditions that made it very difficult for the players the Silkmen kicked off the first half with the wind in their favour. Alexander had, as promised made several changes to the starting line up. In came Richard Walker for his debut and there was also a return for James Jennings and a first appearance under the new boss for Danny Thomas. Youngster Shaun Brisley and Francis Green were in the bench with Michael
With the game underway the Silkmen looked to have grabbed an early lead, but Ryan Cresswell was adjudged to have fouled his marker and his effort on four minutes was ruled out. But undeterred the men in blue made the most of the conditions and ensured the home team were under pressure.
But despite having dominated possession and created some good chances the sides went into the break all square. The travelling fans must have feared the worse with the Daggers about to enjoy the wind in the second half and those fears were almost realised when the Silkmen conceded a rather soft penalty on 56 minutes.
Jon Nurse appeared to go down far too easily under a challenge from JJ but the referee saw it differently and pointed to the spot. However Jonny Brain produced a fine save from the resultant Dave Rainford spot kick.
The keeper, who had another fine game was called in action moments later to tip over a pile driver of a shot from Nurse. But you sensed the Silkmen were gaining in confidence. The boss made his first change on 67 minutes and it proved decisive.
Eleven minutes later substitute Francis Green grabbed the winner, picking up the ball and cutting inside the box before producing a precise finish.
And whilst the home team pressed hard for an equaliser, the closest they came was in the 89th minute when once again Jon Brain dived superbly block Christopher Moore's goal bound effort.
After the disappointments of Saturday anything other than a win would have been harsh on for the Silkmen. It may not have been a classic, but with results elsewhere all going in our favour it could prove to be our most important three points of the season.
