Football
Gate are edged out by Town

Highgate United 1 Stratford Town 2

Midland Alliance

DEPLETED Highgate fell to defeat against ten-man Stratford on Saturday with a stunning second half free kick proving the difference between the two sides.

Keith Checketts was without forwards Junior Bennett and Luke Benbow through injury whilst Alando Lewis had been recalled by Solihull Moors and Karl King was unavailable.

The first opportunity of a well balanced contest saw Stratford’s Chris Murphy lift a good opportunity over Shawn Edwards’ goal but it was the home side who went closest early on when Toby Checketts struck the bar.

Denied a penalty appeal for what looked a clear hand ball, Gate continued to give a good account of themselves against a physically strong outfit but found themselves behind in 26th minute when a mistake in the final third allowed Mykel Beckley to beat Edwards with a well struck angled shot.

Dan Povey was denied an equaliser ten minutes later by an off-side flag but Gate were soon celebrating when Ben Judd’s corner beat Richard Morris into the top corner.

Allen-Noble had a great chance to put Gate ahead just before the interval but he miscued with just Morris to beat.

It was a far more determined Stratford side who emerged in the second half and Edwards had to save well from Martin Thompson early on.

Despite having less possession, Gate still went close through Dineen from 12-yards before Stratford were reduced to ten men when Andy Gregory picked up a second yellow card.

The visitors still secured all three points though when Beckley fired home a fantastic 70th minute free kick from 20-yards as Stratford left with all three points.

Gate visit Gresley on Saturday (3pm).