Tulips’ FA Cup run over

Spalding United’s run in the FA Cup came to an end on Saturday as they were beaten 3-1 at Mickleover.
The leaders of the Southern League Premier Division ran out comfortable winners in the end as the Tulips looked to go for a second win in the competition against a higher ranked side.
Andy Dales’ 13th minute drive from long range gave the hosts an early lead.
The first half was an even affair with Jordan Graham and James Clifton both going close and a Mickleover defender heading against his own while Tony Breedon pulled off some good saves at the other end.
Spalding got back on level terms six minutes after the break, Graham making no mistake from the penalty spot.
But Mickleover were gifted the lead back moments later when a mix-up allowed Dales through to score.
And it was 3-1 in the 71st minute when a free kick back off the bar and the host’s Stuart Beavon netted to ensure his side’s 10th win in a row in all competitions.
“We’ve come away to a very good side and for large parts we matched them,” said manager Elliot Sandy.
“Their movement was very good and they scored a great opening goal, but we stayed in the game.
“It’s the small margins as well. Their header hit the bar and we haven’t reacted.
“We go in 1-0, get the penalty for 1-1 and then a terrible mistake at the back and it’s 2-1.
“You can’t give those sort of opportunities to a team as good as they are.
“Against the better teams you have to be sharper in the mind, but we’ll learn from that.”
It’s back to the league now for Spalding and also the Sir Halley Stewart as they host Shepshed Dynamo on Saturday.
Attendance: 324.