A BLISTERING strike from Robbie Mason fired Ely to a 1-0 win over fierce rivals Wisbech on Tuesday. In a fiercely contested derby, there was little to separate the teams until Mason s sublime turn and shot from 12 yards early in the second-half that ultim

A BLISTERING strike from Robbie Mason fired Ely to a 1-0 win over fierce rivals Wisbech on Tuesday.

In a fiercely contested derby, there was little to separate the teams until Mason's sublime turn and shot from 12 yards early in the second-half that ultimately secured the three points for the Robins.

Delighted boss Denis Lightning said: "We have not had any luck against Wisbech over the last few years so to finally get a win under our belts against them was pleasing.

"It was a very physical game but I thought we competed well especially as we had four players who dropped out on the day due to illness and injury.

"The three points have moved us up into a strong mid-table position and if we can secure a top 10 finish come the end of the season it would be very pleasing."

The breakthrough finally came for Ely 10 minutes into the second-half as Mason linked up with strike partner Scott Fielding on the edge of the Wisbech area. After the pair had exchanged passes, Mason worked a yard of space to turn and fire past the keeper from 12 yards.

The goal sparked an onslaught from Wisbech and they continued to turn the screw for much of the second-half. The visitors might have drawn level from the spot late on but a strong shout for a penalty was waved away by the referee.

The win moves Ely up into 13th place in the Ridgeons Premier League while Wisbech remain in 10th place.