St Mary's too strong for St John's

Priestnal double ends 2017 on a high for Saints

The striker who has been St Marys’ most prolific marksman for more than a decade ensured they ended 2017 on a high.

Steven Priestnal scored twice as the Saints ran out 4-2 winners over St John’s at the Bowl.

The hosts had a dream start when Tommy Johnson fired them in front within a minute.

They also had a dream end to the half when Karl Clark headed in Brian Crellin’s corner on the stroke of half-time to double their lead.

Priestnal took charge after the break, extending the advantage to 3-0 within six minutes of the re-start.

A special finish from the livewire 22 minutes from time made the outcome beyond doubt and, although St John’s continued to battle hard – reducing the arrears twice in quick succession through Alex Holden and Anthony Moore – St Mary’s held on for victory.