Return of Hutchings provides big lift as promotion-chasing Moneyfields beat Slimbridge

It moves Moneys to within touching distance of securing their play-off spot.

Hutchings remains fourth top scorer in the league despite missing 17 games through suspension.

Manager Dave Carter is delighted to have his prolific goalscorer back in the side for the crucial closing weeks.

The boss said: ‘Having Hutch in the team makes a big difference and gives everyone a lift.

‘Apart from his goals he occupies defenders and creates space for others.

‘Realistically we are now looking at the play-offs and one more point should guarantee that.

‘Then we must make sure we finish as high as we can to give ourselves the biggest advantage.’

First-half goals from Hutchings and Nathan Paxton put the visitors in control.

Poor defending allowed Slimbridge to get back into the game two minutes before the break.

Another error on 71 minutes saw Moneyfields pegged back to 2-2 but two goals in the final four minutes won it for the visitors.

Substitute Joe Briggs restored the lead on 86 minutes and Lewis Fennemore scored from a free-kick at the death.

Carter added: ‘It was a funny old game and a few nerves kicked in at times.

‘It was disappointing to concede right on half time after controlling the first half.’

The win keeps Moneyfields in third spot five points behind Yate Town immediately above them.