Spalding United 1
Belper Town 1
(penalties 2-4)
There was more penalty shoot-out misery for Spalding United on Tuesday night as Belper Town dumped them out of the Integro League Cup.
It looked like the Tulips were heading for round two when, after a goalless first period, speedy striker Jonny Lockie fired tham ahead in the opening moments of the second half.
But Belper, who went close numerous times before eventually equalising, forced penalties when George Milner headed into the net from an 89th-minute set-piece.
Although both Gary King and Luke White netted from the spot for Spalding in the shoot-out, George Zuerner and Jordan Lemon – who was captain for the night – both saw their penalties saved by James Leverton.
Belper made no mistake with all four of theirs and progress to the next round at the Tulips’ expense.
This Saturday sees Spalding, who are still without a permanent manager, make the trip to leaders Osset United in Evo-Stik League East Division (3pm).
They also have a big derby clash at Stamford to look forward to on Tuesday night (7.45pm).
With no permanent manager in place, caretaker chief Matt Easton is likely to still be in charge.
Tulips: Duggan, Floyd, Hugo, Humble, Fixter, Zuerner, Lemon, Brooks (Chipamaunga), King, Mettam (White), Lockie. Not used: Spafford, Davison, Waters.
MOTM: Floyd.
Attendance: 69.