Gainsborough Trinity made it three wins in a row, Stamford shared the points and Lincoln United suffered a disappointing home defeat during a busy midweek programme of league and cup football, writes David Ward.
Northern Premier League Premier Division
Gainsborough Trinity continued their winning run with a 3-1 victory over Ilkeston Town, although they had to withstand pressure before a stoppage-time goal finally settled the contest. It was an ideal start for the Holy Blues, who were awarded a penalty inside the opening two minutes, with Frank Mulhern converting to put the hosts ahead.
That advantage lasted only until the tenth minute, when Ilkeston levelled with a penalty of their own. Terry Hawkridge then almost put the visitors in front on the half-hour mark, lifting a loose ball over the Trinity goalkeeper, only for his effort to clear the crossbar. Both sides created opportunities, but they went into the break level at 1-1.
Trinity emerged with renewed purpose after half-time, putting Ilkeston under sustained pressure. Their efforts were rewarded in the 57th minute when Ronnie Kokkinos found the net during the second goalmouth scramble in quick succession, restoring the home side’s lead.
The Holy Blues continued to push forward, but Ilkeston became an increasing threat as the half wore on. Hawkridge again went close, this time sending an effort narrowly past the post, before being substituted in the 69th minute. Trinity still had work to do as the visitors chased an equaliser.
With a minute of normal time remaining, goalscorer Kokkinos made way for Ashton Offler. The substitute provided the decisive contribution five minutes into added time, scoring Trinity’s third to secure another three points and extend their winning sequence.
Southern League Premier Division Central
Stamford were held to a goalless draw by Stratford Town in an entertaining encounter, with kick-off delayed by 15 minutes because of traffic congestion. The Daniels were looking to respond to Saturday’s narrow defeat, and both sides produced half-chances during an open first half. Neither could find a breakthrough before the interval.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Stamford’s clearest opportunity arriving in the 82nd minute. Luca Alonzi had a chance from six yards but directed his shot straight at the Stratford goalkeeper. The hosts continued to search for a late winner, but ultimately had to settle for a point.
Northern Premier League Division One East
Lincoln United endured a difficult evening at Ashby Avenue, losing 4-1 to an Ashington side who began the game in the bottom three. After Saturday’s victory, the Whites would have hoped to build some momentum, but instead found themselves two goals down at the break. They pushed forward when in possession without creating clear chances, while the visitors made their attacking opportunities count.
Elliot Dye offered hope of a comeback when he pulled a goal back in the 51st minute. However, that encouragement proved short-lived, with Ashington scoring twice more inside the next ten minutes to put the result beyond United. The Whites will now look for a response in their next outing after a frustrating home setback.
Cup Round-Up
Boston United were involved in an extraordinary 11-goal contest at the Jakemans Stadium, eventually losing 6-5 to Southampton’s PL2 side. The Pilgrims made nine changes from Saturday and led 2-0, 3-2 and 4-3 during a frantic first half. The goals continued after the interval, but Boston found themselves 6-4 behind before an 87th-minute reply reduced the deficit without rescuing the result.
There was better news for Louth, who secured a 3-0 away victory over Crowle Colts in the Lincolnshire Senior Cup. They came through an entertaining encounter to progress and provide one of the evening’s positive cup results.
Pinchbeck also won 3-0 on their travels in the same competition, overcoming Holbeach. That result continued their encouraging recent form and should give them further confidence as they look to build on their improvement.
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