AFC Preston will contend their second semi-final in two years after they again pulled off another shock in the annual AMT Lawyers Football Championships.
Going into the tie as underdogs Preston never really looked in any trouble in this 2-0 victory. Euro Garages were below par but this was a well-executed win for the Preston side who came with a well thought out plan.
A well taken goal and a brave header put AFC into the next round on another great day for AFC.
Euro Garages kindly provided their second kit to AFC Preston after a colour clash on the day.
Coppice have to dig deep to beat United
A great penalty save by Helmi El Sakka in the first half
It has been a while since we have seen a performance like this from Blackburn United.
They were sharper for periods in this game and matched triple winners Coppice for strength and pace.
United deservedly went ahead just after the first half and should have made it two if not for some poor finishing.
With ten to go Coppice piled on the pressure but this United side held on and seemed to heading for a famous win. But poor marking at a corner cost them dearly as Coppice showed their experience to take the game to extra-time.
United never really recovered from that goal and Coppice went on to win 4-1. Start badly and win comfortably – this certainly looks like the Coppice of old.
Brave Nomads hearts finally broken in extra-time
The Bolton derby was always going to be tense and Nomads can count themselves unlucky here against Bolton United side.
A sending off for Nomads in the first five minutes dictated the pace of this game. But despite being playing 115 minutes with a man down Nomads put on a magnificent display.
They had the better chances and may well have nicked if it wasn’t for some last ditch defending.
Into extra time though the 11th man seemed to show as United finally broke through not once but twice. It wasn’t over yet though as Nomads got themselves one back through what had to be the best goal seen on this ground for several years. A fantastic 30 yard strike from Gedeao Varela was well deserved for the ten men.
This young Nomads side can be proud of this display. United though will need to be lot sharper if they want to progress.
FC Bolton put in a brave display against Halifax
New boys FC Bolton began the game well and may well have had two if it wasn’t for some poor finishing.
It was always going to be tough going up against the 2014 and 2016 champions but FC Bolton handled themselves well.
Halifax soon got themselves into gear and bagged two quick goals to put themselves in pole position. They went 3-0 up before FC Bolton got one back and pressed for a second that may have given this game a lively finish.
Halifax made it four. As the final whistle beckoned tempers flared as FC Bolton had a man sent off for violent conduct. It was poor end to a game that up until then been played in good spirits by the players.
The final few seconds of the game were a disgrace and Halifax have since been fined for the behaviour of some of their fans.
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