Browse Sections

• Local football
• Local cricket
• Golf

Albion lost in the dark

19/12/2002

SOCCER: Wilmslow Albion 2 Prestwich Heys 3

Wilmslow Albion were knocked out of the Gilgryst Cup in extra-time after their second round match descended into farce.

After the referee had decided to play an hour-long second half due to stoppages for injuries, the teams had to play the extra period in near total darkness.

The match almost did not start at all, but the officials allowed the game to be played - despite the boggy pitch resembling the peat diggings on Lindow Common.

Prestwich took an early lead with just five minutes on the clock, Danny Norton scoring from the edge of the box.

But Wilmslow responded within 60 seconds. Mike Brereton hit a cross-shot the Prestwich keeper could only palm out, and Scott Flanagan slid in to score.

Wilmslow took the lead through a fantastic 30-yard strike into the top corner from Brereton from a quick throw-in by Eddisbury.

But Albion could not find the killer goal and Prestwich equalised.

Player manager Aide Moran fed Mark Denham and he cracked home an excellent cross-shot to make it 2-2.

In the last minute, Dean Martin crossed to the back post, where Scott Flanagan dived to head what seemed to be the winner - but the offside flag was up.

As the light disappeared, Prestwich grabbed the winner when Paul Mercer headed home a free kick from the left.

After being unbeaten for so long, it is now three straight defeats for Wilmslow Albion. Saturday's match at home to strugglers Willows cannot come soon enough.

Wilmslow Albion reserves have opened up a 15-point gap at the top of Division Two after a tough 3-2 win at Springhead Reserves.

It is now 14 consecutive wins for Jason O'Neil's team, who remain unbeaten this season.