Jonny Lockie scored his first senior goal as Spalding United bowed out of the Lincolnshire Senior Cup after Saturday’s semi-final defeat to league rivals Stamford.
The teenager struck just six minutes after coming on as a second half substitute as Spalding sought a way back into the last four clash after two stunning Stamford strikes had rocked the Tulips.
Ex-Tulip David Bell and Jordan Smith had both smashed home cracking efforts as the Daniels took full advantage of a lack-lustre Spalding display in the opening period.
The Tulips improved considerably after the break but, despite Lockie’s maiden effort, were unable to stop Stamford from booking an all EvoStik League Division One South final with Lincoln United.
The hosts, who are much-fancied to challenge for league honours this season, began brightly with Ryan Robbins breaking free inside the opening minutes only to fire straight at Spalding custodian Michael Duggan.
Stamford then broke the deadlock midway through the first half as Spalding struggled to clear their lines following a free kick into the penalty area.
The ball broke to Smith whose spectacular volley flew over Duggan and into the Spalding net via the underside of the crossbar.
The lead was doubled seven minutes later when Bell picked up a loose ball and arrowed home a swirling shot into the top corner from 30 yards.
The Tulips had rarely troubled home goalkeeper Peter Denton, but he was forced into action for the first time just four minutes before half-time with a crucial block.
Jenk Acar was released by Bradley Barraclough, but Denton made a smart stop with his feet to turn away the goalbound effort.
Stamford were soon back on the offensive and Duggan had to smother at the feet of Javani Brown after the home striker’s marauding run.
Paul Walker then headed home off the line a minute after the restart to keep out Sam Hill’s goalbound header for the home side.
Brown tested Duggan from distance while Spafford sent another header over as Spalding looked for a way back into the contest.
This eventually came through Lockie who had been introduced for Varley with just over 20 minutes remaining.
The youngster was picked out by a pass from fellow substitute Tom Waumsley before firing under the advancing Denton.
Spalding then piled men forward in search of an equaliser, but the home side held out to secure their third final appearance in four seasons.
Spalding then piled men forward in search of an equaliser, but the home side held out to secure their third final appearance in four seasons.
Tulips: Duggan, Walker, Field, Varley (Lockie 68), Stainfield, Spafford, Hamilton (Waumsley 61), Whitehead, Acar, Barraclough (Costa 79), Downey. Not used: Vince.
Attendance: 235.
