(Brad Sherwood scores from the spot)
This Saturday lunchtime, The Non-League Reds welcome FC Isle of Man to The Marine Travel Arena, for what is sure to be an entertaining game.
Last season's corresponding fixture played in the September sunshine, had 8 goals in 73 minutes, at which point the game was abandoned due to a head injury to AFC keeper Harry Deveney. It was the visitors who took the lead in the 17th minute, but Edan Bavelock scored to equalise and send the teams in level at 1-1. The Ravens flew out the blocks in the 2nd half and regained their lead in the opening minute and then extended it to 1-3 in the 56th. Five minutes later AFC pulled one back through Andy Mandjoba, but no sooner had the home side's celebrations finished, when FC Isle of Man struck again, with Pinnington getting his 2nd of the game.
So AFC faced a two goal deficit again but they went straight up the other end and won a penalty, which Brad Sherwood converted. With both sets of supporters trying their best to keep count, in between cheering their side's efforts, the ball fell to Dan Abdous, who slotted home a 71st minute equaliser. The game was set up for an exciting finish, and who knows how many more goals would have been scored, as both defences seemed to have taken the day off! Sadly, after landing badly, the AFC keeper sustained a head injury and the game was called to a halt. Sensibly, with the scores level, the decision was made that the result would stand rather than try to replay the game.
(The game is brought to a premature end)
Whilst we probably won't get the same sunshine as last year, you can almost guarantee there will be goals. The Ravens come in to this game sitting 5th in the table and on a fine run of form that's left them unbeaten in 7, whilst AFC have lost their last 4. Sean Doyle leads the way in the goal charts for the visitors with 11 and Stephen Whitley is right behind him on 10.
So an exciting afternoon and a great atmosphere is in store for any fans coming to the game. Please don't forget that this one kicks-off at 12 NOON. We look forward to seeing you there.
(Pics courtesy of Dave Williams)
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