ELY 1s got the better of a dogged Wisbech side to record an impressive 3-1 victory. Despite their position in the lower reaches of Division 3NW, Wisbech made for troublesome opponents and made Ely work for what was ultimately a justified victory. The win,

ELY 1s got the better of a dogged Wisbech side to record an impressive 3-1 victory.

Despite their position in the lower reaches of Division 3NW, Wisbech made for troublesome opponents and made Ely work for what was ultimately a justified victory.

The win, although having little bearing on the league with Ely already promoted, moved the home side onto 54 points, twelve clear of nearest rivals March.

The game started as if its winner had been promised untold millions, with both teams setting a pace that brought a sweat to even those on the sidelines.

Ely's passing and movement was polished to a high shine but time and again they were matched by the equally sparkling defensive work of a well drilled Wisbech team.

Tommy Hugo was the home side's most promising attacking outlet in the early stages as, on a couple of occasions, he worked a yard a space enough to let loose. On both occasions however, Hugo was admirably denied by the stubborn Wisbech goalie.

Half time afforded both teams the chance to rethink strategies and, as hostilities resumed, Ely adopted a more patient approach while Wisbech began to venture forward in greater numbers than they had in the first half.

Ely's frugal defence were more than up to the task however, and they repelled the best of the visitors' attacks. So effective was the defence that, with 15 minutes gone in the second half, a break-away from a failed Wisbech attack brought the game's opening goal.

Hugo was the beneficiary of the defence's good work as he slotted home from a Vincett cross. Ely broke free of their shackles in the aftermath of the opener and, not five minutes later the lead was doubled as Hugo netted once more.

A battling hat-trick was completed two minutes later as a mistake in the Wisbech defence handed Hugo the easiest of tap-ins.

Pouring over the wreckage of their promising performance, Wisbech did manage to pull a goal back with a superb run and shot flying high into the net, but it was all too late as the whistle sounded mere seconds later.