Adam Le Fondre scored twice as FC United of Manchester moved off the bottom of the National League North table following a 3-2 victory over Whitby Town at Broadhurst Park on Saturday.

The 39-year-old striker opened the scoring in the 33rd minute, finishing off a cross from Donald Chimalilo to give FC United the lead. Shortly after, captain Michael Donohue doubled the advantage with a close-range finish, putting the home side firmly in control before halftime.

Whitby Town, who had remained unbeaten in their previous three matches under new manager Graeme Lee, staged a spirited comeback in the second half. Callum Hickman pulled one back after calmly running onto a long pass and slotting the ball home early in the second period. The Seasiders pressed for an equalizer, with Dan James narrowly missing when his shot hit the crossbar from a corner. Hickman then scored his ninth league goal of the season in the 62nd minute with a precise angled finish, leveling the match at 2-2.

After regaining composure, FC United quickly responded. Midfielder Niall Watson fired a shot high into the net with five minutes remaining, restoring the lead. Le Fondre then sealed the win by adding his second goal late on, securing all three points for the hosts.

Goalkeeper Oli Swan was actively involved in the first half, making several saves to keep Whitby in the contest, including a notable stop to deny Jay Harris and another to block a low effort from Michael Donohue.

FC United’s victory marked a crucial turnaround in their campaign, lifting them off the foot of the table in a tightly contested fixture that saw momentum swing between both sides. Whitby Town’s resilience and attacking threat under Lee’s management remain evident, but FC United held firm to claim a vital home win.