For the third time in four home league games, Darlaston Town squandered the lead, as they fell to defeat at the hands of Vauxhall Motors FC.

The defeat means The Citizens are now pointless in their opening home games, despite being unbeaten with two wins and a draw in their away fixtures.

After a two-week break, Darlaston boss Dean Gill made two changes from the side that lost to Bedworth United in the FA Trophy. Jake Pearson returning to the starting line-up following a holiday whilst Kieron Berry returned after illness, Callum Knowles reverted to the bench whilst Harry Chesterton was unavailable.

Darlaston made a bright start, going ahead after 14 minutes. Following a rash challenge on Keiron Berry in the penalty area the referee immediately pointed to the spot. James Rowland converted at the second attempt after former Liverpool Under 21 keeper Reece Trueman saved the spot kick, Rowland clipping home the rebound.

Several torrential down pours threatened to make a mockery of the game, both sides responding well to the conditions with some good quality football. Darlaston had the edge, Vauxhall's Nick Rushton and Adam Hughes both impressing whilst Bailey Storey was excellent for the home side who were missing the pace and attacking prowess of Chesterton.

The second half saw Vauxhall start well with a more attacking approach. The equaliser quickly came on 52 minutes when Finley Heath curled home a superbly executed free kick from the wide out on the left. The equaliser gave the visitors plenty of confidence to push forward and whilst Darlaston had the better of the first half, it was the visitors who had the better of the second half. The visitors added a second on 66 minutes when Joe Malkin tapped home from close range following some good approach work down the left.

Vauxhall, superbly marshalled by central defender Adam Hughes, managed the remainder of the game their experience and professionalism keeping the young Darlaston side at bay, limiting any clear chances to a minimum, as well as creating a couple of good opportunities themselves.

A draw would probably have been a fair result, but no one can deny Vauxhall the points after their excellent second half performance.

One interesting point of note was the appearance of Vauxhall's second half substitute Kevin Ellison. Ellison has made more than 600 Football League appearances in all four Divisions. After making his Premier Division debut at Leicester City, Ellison went on to play for clubs such as Hull City, Bradford City and Morecambe, netting 147 goals.

Button Oak photography as always covered the game, their afternoon's work is available of the clubs website by clicking Vauxhall Motors - Home

Next up for Darlaston is a long trip on Tuesday evening to play Stalybridge Celtic in a rearranged league fixture. Kick off 7.45 pm

Seats are still available of the team coach which leaves The Paycare Stadium at 4 pm at a cost of £15, please contact Pete Davies on 07847 829921 to reserve your seat