Corby Town returned to winning ways in style on Tuesday evening, securing a crucial 2–0 victory over Mickleover FC under the lights at Steel Park. A determined second-half performance, capped off by a dramatic 96th-minute goal from Wiktor Gromek, earned the Steelmen three valuable points and gave the home supporters plenty to celebrate.

Following a difficult run of results, Graham Drury's side delivered exactly the response their manager had demanded, showing resilience, determination and a willingness to battle for every ball against strong opposition.

The opening 45 minutes proved a closely contested affair, with neither side able to find the breakthrough before the interval. Both teams continued to compete for control after the restart, with chances at either end.

On the hour mark, Corby goalkeeper Milai produced an excellent save to deny Mickleover from a dangerous free kick just outside the penalty area, keeping the scores level and providing a crucial platform for the Steelmen to push forward.

Ward's Footwork Creates the Breakthrough

Corby's persistence finally paid off in the 70th minute following an excellent attacking move.

A well-worked passage of play through the centre of the pitch released Amir Ward out wide. Showing quick feet and excellent control, Ward danced past his defender before delivering a dangerous ball across the face of goal, where it was turned home from close range to give the Steelmen a deserved 1–0 advantage.

With the home crowd firmly behind them, Corby continued to press while remaining disciplined defensively as Mickleover searched for a way back into the contest.

Drury introduced Wiktor Gromek in the 79th minute, replacing Jordon Crawford, before Fran Obiagwu came on for Ryan Boothe as the match entered its closing stages.

Stoppage-Time Drama Seals the Points

The final minutes delivered plenty of excitement at Steel Park.

With the match approaching full time, Corby came agonisingly close to doubling their advantage during a frantic goalmouth scramble. The ball bobbled around the Mickleover goal line, but somehow refused to cross it.

However, the Steelmen weren't finished.

Deep into stoppage time, substitute Wiktor Gromek found the net in the 96th minute, putting the result beyond doubt and sparking celebrations around Steel Park.

The final whistle confirmed a thoroughly earned 2–0 victory, delivering three important league points and a clean sheet for Drury's side.

Drury: "They've Put In a Proper Corby Performance"

Speaking to Chuck Middleton following the victory, manager Graham Drury was full of praise for his players, highlighting the significance of securing his first win since returning to the club.

"I don't think people understand how much that actually means tonight, because that's our first win since I've come back."

Drury acknowledged the quality of the opposition but was particularly pleased with the physical commitment and determination shown across the pitch.

"They're a good side. They're strong, they've got a great squad, and tonight we've had to go toe-to-toe."

"I can't be any prouder of the group tonight. They've really fought for me tonight and put in a proper Corby performance."

The manager had challenged his players to respond following Saturday's disappointing defeat, demanding greater intensity in individual battles and a stronger collective performance.

And the Steelmen certainly delivered.

Drury also reserved special praise for goalkeeper Milai, whose commanding performance and important second-half save helped secure the clean sheet.

"I thought he was outstanding tonight. His commanding of his box, his kicking, everything about him was really good tonight."

Despite several players finishing the match carrying knocks after a demanding contest, Drury praised the squad's willingness to put their bodies on the line for the team.

"They've dug in, they've fought, they've battled, and they've showed a side to them tonight that I'm really pleased to see."

A Victory for the Players, the Club and the Supporters

Beyond the result, Tuesday evening represented an important step forward for the Steelmen as they look to build confidence and momentum in the Northern Premier League Midlands Division.

Having conceded eight goals across their previous two fixtures, the clean sheet was particularly encouraging, while the commitment displayed throughout the match demonstrated the togetherness Drury is looking to establish within his squad.

The manager was also keen to recognise the home supporters, whose backing throughout the evening helped drive the team towards victory.

"I'm so chuffed for the fans because it's been a long time coming."

With three points secured and confidence growing, attention now turns to another important challenge.

Next Up: Shepshed Dynamo at Steel Park

The Steelmen return to action this Saturday, 31 October, when Shepshed Dynamo visit Steel Park for a 3:00pm kick-off.

Tuesday's victory provides the perfect platform to build on, and Drury will be hoping his players can carry the same intensity, determination and fighting spirit into another crucial league fixture.

When asked about the challenge ahead, the manager's message was simple:

"We're ready to go again."

Two goals. Three points. A clean sheet. And a performance full of fight.

A massive thank you to everyone who came down to Steel Park on Tuesday evening and got behind the lads. Your support makes all the difference, and we need you back again on Saturday as we look to make it two home wins in a row.

Get down to Steel Park, get behind the Steelmen and MAKE SOME NOISE!

#MonTheSteelmen