The gap has now been stretched to 12 points at the top of Humber Premier League Division 1.
North Cave do have games in hand to draw level, but the Hodgsons FC manager, Lee Hastings, would much rather have the points on the board.
Hastings said this;
“We have opened up a nice gap between us and North Cave. I would much rather be where we are than chasing down a team so far ahead. So yes I’m very pleased.”
“Of our remaining 6 matches we can secure 2nd place with 2 more wins and 1 draw, however, I’m all set out to win what could be our second title in a row”.
The Tanners had to work hard for their 14th league win this season after falling behind on 20 mins. North Ferriby looked sharp and attacked with pace, and this was clearly causing problems for the away side.
Matters weren’t helped when Grantham had to come off with a testicular injury and be replaced by Andrew Stott.
An equaliser came 5 minutes later much to the relief of the Hodgsons travelling support. Talisman Danny Cartwright levelled in superb style firing the ball into the top corner of the net.
10 minutes later Dennis Edgar made it 2-1 striking a powerful right foot drive past the North Ferriby keeper.
A third goal for the Tanners just before half-time put them firmly in the driving seat. Cartwright grabbed his second after some great work by Edgar and Adam Foster.
It was Foster’s ball across the box that left Cartwright the opportunity to control with ease and let rip with a blockbuster shot that struck the underside of the bar and landed in the back of the net.
The second half saw Hodgsons start the stronger. On 52 mins Shaun Gibson scored a wonder goal. From all of 25 yards out he struck an unstoppable left foot drive which left the keeper with no chance.
Ferriby to their credit never gave up and got a 2nd goal with 15 minutes remaining. But it was man of the match Danny Cartwright who had the final say. He walked home with the match ball after completing a fine hatrick with a cool finish to make it 5-2.
Next week (Saturday 12th February) Hodgsons host North Cave in the Grays Cup at Longcroft School (3G pitch). The winners of which would face current cup holders Beverley Town.
Final Score: North Ferriby Athletic 2-5 Hodgsons FC (Cartwright 3, Edgar, Gibson)
