Holbeach United 3
Northampton SR 1
Holbeach United bounced back from back-to-back defeats to end Northampton Sileby Rangers’ ten-game unbeaten run in ChromaSport UCL Premier Division in what was a stormy Carter’s Park clash.
The Tigers trailed 1-0 at half time after a smash and grab strike from Brian Farrell, who rounded keeper Travis Portas on seven minutes.
Josh Ford, brought on at right wing back at half time, levelled when he smashed home from a corner inside the first minute of the second period.
But Sileby soon lost their heads and had goal-scorer Farrell and dangerman Michael Byrne sent off for violent conduct towards Ford – an incident that sparked a mass brawl – with 20 minutes still to play.
Holbeach made their numerical advantage count as Aaron Eyett, who had a fine game, fired them ahead on 83 minutes with a superb effort that went in via the bar.
The job was done three minutes from time thanks to free-scoring defender Spencer Tinkler, who fired home a loose ball.
Tigers chief Tom Roberts felt his side would have won regardless of the two red cards – but was severe in his criticism of the incident that saw one of his players attacked on the field.
Roberts said: “Even with 11 men, I’m sure we’d have still won the game.
“We dominated the first half and missed plenty of chances, while they scored from what felt like their only shot of note.
“We brought Josh Ford on at half time and made a few changes – and it really worked.
“It was just a matter of time until we scored a few more goals, but they lost the plot if I’m honest.
“Fordy had his eyes gouged by one player and was kicked repeatedly in the kidneys while on the floor.
“It wasn’t very nice to watch, if I’m honest. It certainly wasn’t football.
“Yes, our lads were involved too – but they were trying to protect Fordy.
“You have to praise the referee for being strong and sending their two off.
“We got the job done pretty easily after that as we made the pitch very big.”
Holbeach visit table-topping Peterborough Sports on Tuesday night (7.45pm), with new loan signing Jonny Lockie set to make his debut.
Tigers: Portas, Allen, Tinkler, N Jackson, Walton (Ford 46), Eyett, Warfield (Tidswell 70), Muldrew, A Jackson (Thomas 82), Treacher, Clitheroe.
Attendance: 97.
