VETERAN goalkeeper Darren Steadman earned the plaudits from joint manager Craig Payton after a string of fine saves helped Bewdley Town see off AFC Wulfrunians 2-0 in the West Midlands League Premier Divisor on Saturday.

Former Harriers shot-stopper Steadman was in impenetrable form and topped a fine display with a late penalty save as Town defeated the title chasers away from home.

Last season Steadman had been back-up to Tom Harper but with the latter’s departure to Rushall Olympic in the summer, he was thrust back into the starting line-up on a regular basis.

“That was his best performance in a Bewdley shirt,” commented Payton.

“The saves he made at the end kept us in the match, if Wulfrunians had scored from the spot then they would have fancied their chances of getting something from the match with 15 minutes to go.

“But we’re delighted with the result. It was the first game in a really tough run of matches and it was important to get off with a win.

“It was also our second clean sheet in a row, so overall it was a great day.”

Chris Hough fired Bewdley ahead with a clinical finish from a one-on-one in the first half, but captain Steve Holt saw a chance to double their advantage squandered when he missed a penalty.

Steadman kept Bewdley ahead with a fine double save, denying ex-Town hitman Grant Joshua in the process.

Richard Burgess doubled Bewdley’s lead when he controlled a long ball and drilled a low 25-yard shot into the back of the net.

Bewdley though conceded a penalty when Dan Flowers was adjuged to have brought an opposition player down in the box.

Steadman though saved the initial shot and then tipped over the follow-up.

Defender Richard Costello will be available after serving suspension for Bewdley, who played Lye last night, when they entertain league leaders Tividale on Saturday (3pm kick-off).

Town then take on Dudley Sports away next Tuesday (7.45pm kick-off).