LINGERS REACH A NEW LOW FOLLOWING HUMILIATING HOME DEFEAT

A fifth straight league reverse of the new year left morale at a new low and highlighted yet again Lingfield’s major need to sign quality striking reinforcements despite current cash strapped times.

Geoff Pitcher’s visitors could not believe their luck as they exploited Lingfield’s ineffective sweeper system constantly, despite losing talented young manager’s son Charlie Pitcher due to suffering cramp, being replaced by Branden Fugl after only 22 minutes.

The deadlock was broken after 34 minutes when Jamie Weston sent man of the match goalkeeper Scott Millar the wrong way from the penalty spot after referee Darren Eaton had adjudged that defender David Dean had handled the ball on the goal-line.

Three minutes later Lingers looked set to cave in completely as Weston completed his brace, shooting home past overworked Millar following substitute Fugl’s through ball.

The hosts trailed 2-0 at half-time and faced a massive task in turning around their flagging form.

Nathan Millroy put the result beyond doubt effectively, making it 3-0 on 54 minutes, unleashing an unstoppable long range shot which Millar was unable to keep out of the under fire net.

Worse followed for demoralised Lingers 11 minutes later when substitute Jack Mooney appeared to concede an own goal unfortunately, giving Millar no chance following captain Aaron Walsh’s well flighted free-kick.

Fugl completed his double for 5-0 after 79 minutes, netting following Luke Akehurst’s cross.

But, to their credit, Lingers salvaged late consolation goals. After 84 minutes Sam Clements volleyed home captain Gareth Graham’s through ball first time, leaving keeper Rob Gordon helpless. Finally, Graham converted an 87th minute penalty, beating Gordon who went the right way following an apparent foul by Dan O’Farrell, although there was considerable confusion about this award.

Man of the match: Scott Millar.

By David Goves