Defeat for AFC in first round of Radcliffe Cup

Their opponents, a league above them, were gifted the lead when a tame long range effort was spilled by the young AFC goalkeeper Mark Goan.

It seemed the shake that AFC needed though. As half time approached on the basis of play the Boys Club deserved to be level, moving the ball well and soaking up the pressure at the back.

When Gartland moved forward he unleashed a 25 yard shot, levelling the scores at 1-1. Buoyed by the goal AFC continued to press moving the ball well. After the restart however

a few lapses in concentration had AFC on the back foot, but the ship was soon steadied.

In a game which flowed from end to end the spectators were getting just reward from the game. More passing and fine work from full back Gareth Cargin, seen AFC create a number of chances and one on ones with the visitors goalkeeper. On another day Sean Cunnigham could easily have scored three, but today was not his day.

In an agonising finish the much taller Broomhill, threw the big lads up, and in the deaths of injury time approaching the 93rd minute they got their winner, AFC barely took centre and the final whistle blew 2-1 the final score.

Credit must go Broomhill, but they came off the pitch knowing that they were lucky to be progressing to the next round.

Manager Chris Beattie commented, “We’re getting closer to that much need first competitive win and I am very pleased with the commitment and hard work of the lads today, but I’m also gutted for them.