Accrington took a big stride towards League Two survival as Ben Woods’ breathtaking free-kick earned them a hard-fought 2-1 victory at Salford.

The attacker bent a sensational effort into the top-left corner to lift Stanley up to 21st, six points above the relegation places going into the final three games, with Salford four points off the play-off spots.

John Doolan’s side were more energetic throughout a scrappy opening and came close to taking a deserved lead after 21 minutes when Woods’ fiercely-struck free-kick cannoned off the upright.

Salford goalkeeper Matty Young reacted sharply to deny Tyler Walton before, from the resulting corner, he palmed Woods’ skilful chest and volley over the crossbar.

But moments later, Accrington’s pressure told when Shaun Whalley climbed highest to head home his ninth goal of the season.

Accrington doubled their advantage just after the hour mark when Woods curled his free-kick into the top corner.

On the back of a six-game unbeaten run, Salford improved as the game wore on and halved the deficit through Hakeeb Adelakun’s 69th-minute penalty, but Stanley comfortably withstood late Salford pressure to earn a crucial win.