Under-23s’ promotion hopes dented in Connexsys defeat

Match Report: Connexsys 3-1 Redcar Athletic Under-23s

Picture of Mark Hathaway

Mark Hathaway

Redcar Athletic Under-23s coach

Redcar Athletic Under-23s’ promotion push suffered a major blow with a disappointing and thoroughly deserved defeat against Connexsys.

The game got off to a fairly even start, though the Athletic defence had a let off on five minutes when a right wing corner saw the Connexsys player head against the bar.

It was 1-0 to Connexsys on 24 minutes, when a through ball split the Athletic defence, and the striker finished expertly.

Just as it looked as if it would be 1-0 at the break, the home side doubled their lead when Emrah Isik just couldn’t prevent the ball crossing the line.

Athletic started the second half marginally better and Adil Hanif had a sight of goal on 48 minutes, firing over the bar from a Cam Thomson pass.

With 25 minutes left, it was nearly 2-1 when a fierce effort from Cam Thomson drew a remarkable save from the Connexsys ‘keeper, who tipped the ball over for a corner.

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However, it was soon 3-0, though there was an element of controversy about the goal.

There was a clear tug back in the box from Luke Finegan, but the referee allowed play to continue, allowing Emrah Isik to make an excellent save.

However, the referee then blew his whistle and awarded a penalty, which was easily converted by the Connexsys player.

With 20 minutes left, Athletic got a consolation when David Bradley set up Cam Thomson, who finished well.

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