Halesowen put their off-field troubles behind them by grinding out a narrow victory at relegation-haunted Mangotsfield.

Matt Clarke marked his return to Yeltz colours, with a solid display but the game was far from a classic as only a few chances were created at either end.

The visitors dominated early on with Richard Shittu heading Darren Caskey’s 13th minute corner wide at the back post.

Mitchell Page was unable to connect from just three yards out in Mangotsfield’s first attempt on 34 minutes, while Matt Groves dragged a low shot wide of the Halesowen post seconds before the interval.

The Yeltz struck the decisive goal four minutes into the second half, when Aaron Cornwall’s deft back heel allowed unmarked Shittu to side foot home a left-wing cross from close range.

A second goal almost followed within two minutes but Dennis Pearce nodded Caskey’s cross wide. Mangotsfield improved in the final half hour with Halesowen surviving several late scares.

Visiting goalkeeper Nick Bussey played through the pain barrier to produce a full length save on 61 minutes in his spirited display before Scott Hendy glanced a header just wide.

Halesowen just held on when Steven Fitzpatrick struck the crossbar with Bussey beaten after the ball was played back in from an 85th minute corner.

Neil Arndale’s long free-kick then broke for Groves but Bussey made a comfortable save with two minutes remaining.

Halesowen: Bussey; Paul, Allward, Clarke, Pearce, Caskey, Ngody, Denny, Shittu (Lindholm 75), Cornwall, Thomas.

Unused Subs: Hamilton, Hall, O’Brien.

Attendance: 221