Early FA Cup KO again for stunned Poachers

Action from Boston Town's FA Cup clash with Wisbech

Wisbech Town 4

The Poachers crashed out of the Emirates FA Cup at the first hurdle for a second year.

And, for a second year running, their formation and line up left questions to be answered, writes Pat Megginson.

Despite Craig Parker firing narrowly over in the opening minute from Fraser Bayliss’ pass, it was the visiting Fenmen that were out of the traps much the quicker.

And on five minutes they took the lead, Millson’s shot cruelly deflected past home keeper James Lambley.

It got worse for Boston six minutes later when referee Nicolae Manolescu allowed an advantage. Lambley saved the ensuing shot but two Wisbech players, looking suspiciously offside, managed to bundle the ball in.

Any thoughts of a comeback were rubbed out on 16 minutes when, somehow, Manalescu failed to award a spot kick when Bayliss was felled from behind in the area. To add insult to injury, Michael Frew increased Wisbech’s lead with a fine solo shot as the visitors were allowed to counter-attack.

Boston were struggling to find any fluidity, but the tireless Danny Trott at least reduced the arrears on 23 minutes as he rounded the Fenmen’s custodian, Ricky Lovelace.

With the diamond formation not working, Boston’s threat seemed to be coming from their full backs. Loz Lambley saw a shot cannon off a defender two minutes later, followed by Parker’s free kick going agonisingly close.

Trott continued to look dangerous in the second period as the Poachers enjoyed plenty of possession.

Danny Wood was replaced by Lori Borbely in a double substitution on 64 minutes, with Sam O’ Malley making way for Alex Beck. Beck, returning from injury, shot narrowly wide and then fired dangerously across goal.

With the home side chasing the game, they were undone by a long ball over the top and Parker could only bring down the Wisbech strike.

Millson gratefully converted from the spot. Michael Frew nearly added a fifth straight after, while at the other end Trott’s cross just escaped Beck’s outstretched leg.

Boston star man: Danny Trott, tireless and a constant handful wherever he went.

Boston Town: James Lambley, Loz Lambley, Craig Parker, Josh Sunter, Michael Wood (capt.), Tom Charlesworth, Danny Wood (Lori Borbely), Jack Wightwick, Sam O’ Malley (Alex Beck), Danny Trott, Fraser Bayliss (Joe Crowther). Subs not used: Adam Todd, Jack Pearson (gk).