Day number nine of our #CountyChristmas Countdown, and today we’re looking back at the ultimate (temporary) farewell gift that gave the Hatters a ninth successive win in all competitions!
County came into the game against FC United on their best winning run in many years, having won their last eight games in all competitions, and knew another three points at Broadhurst Park were crucial in keeping the pressure on Chorley.
Despite FC United’s recent struggles (they would go on to be relegated), they took the lead early on through a goal from Kurt Willoughby early on – the first time we had gone behind in a game in well over a month.
Both teams had further chances in what was an engaging contest, and right on the stroke of half-time, County found an equaliser; Frank Mulhern lofting a delightful finish over the ‘keeper, and into the corner from a tight angle to restore parity.
Despite dominating the second period, it began to look like the Hatters may have to settle for a point as the clock ticked into the 88th minute – enter Jamie Stott, playing his final game before he was due to head back to Oldham.
Sam Walker delivered the cross, Ash Palmer flicked it on, and there was Jamie Stott, volleying home from close range to send those travelling Hatters into raptures.
Jamie left the field that day to a guard of honour from his teammates, although that of course wasn’t the last we saw of him, as he returned later in the season to help steer us to the National League North title. This moment, however, will live long in the memory of him and County fans.
