City Fall To Champions-Elect

City made a first ever visit to the Payaro Stadium to face top-of-the-table Hanley Town in the Midland Football League. With second place Boldmere St Michael reducing the 17-point deficit to just 5 points Hanley were still in need of a win to secure the title and were counting on their vastly experienced squad to pick up the points.

City got off to a bright start, first when James Douglas sent a ball to Archie Muirhead who crossed to Demetri Brown, who couldnt get enough on his shot to bother keeper Ben Chapman. City then had a glorious opportunity as James Douglas floated a free kick to the far post. Josh Schuck rose highest but his header went inches wide.

It was then Hanley's turn for a spell of pressure. First Dickinson finding space on the edge of the box, which Harrison saved comfortably. Then, Louis Dodds forced Harrison in to a great save with an effort from 25 yards out, pushing behind for a corner.

On 41 minutes, Hanley scored what proved to be the only goal of the game. City gave the ball away on the half way line. Charlie Walford broke down the left hand side and crossed for Reece Jones, who bundled the ball in to the City net from a few yards out.

The second half saw Walford once again involved as Hanley drove forward. His effort bounced just in front of Harrison who adjusted well to bat the ball away for a corner. Dodds then almost added a second as he jinked in to the area, but his effort went wide from a tight angle.

City had a half chance late on through substitute Fortune Maphosa, who rose highest to meet a Jamie Smith free kick. His headed effort from 6 yards out went over, and the game ended 1-0 to the hosts.

Attendance: 476

Full Highlights: https://youtu.be/yJpnp0PjCSg