Aveley 1, St Albans City 0

MILLERS wrapped up back-to-back Isthmian Premier wins at Parkside on Monday (2 November) evening thanks to a well-struck free-kick from recent returnee Alejandro Machado.

City arrived at Parkside in the play-off zone and with just one defeat on the road in the league in seven outings so Millers knew they had a tough test.

They passed it with flying colours on a night when they played on the front foot throughout, making two attacking substitutions late in the match rather than trying to shut up shop, a move which exemplifies manager Alex Akrofi's philosophy.

Attacking midfielder Machado was at the heart of the Aveley effort from the off, collecting a ball from Anthony Jeffrey and testing visiting keeper Sam Donkin as early as the second minute.

City weren't there just to defend though and on 25 minutes home keeper Jamie Grossart had to be at his best to deny Saints with a fine save.

Machado had another strike at goal soon after that flew just wide and he again tested Donkin with a shot hammered goalwards just before the break.

He didn't have to wait long in the second half before breaking the deadlock though, firing home a low free kick with a powerful left foot drive from the edge of the box after 53 minutes.

It proved enough to win the game as Millers attacked and defended with equal endeavour through the remaining minutes to delight the home crowd.

After a run of five consecutive home matches that resulted in four wins, Millers take to the road again this coming Saturday with a trip to Ramsgate, another side challenging at the top of the table.