Rawdon proud after cup battle sees Horncastle lose to last kick
John Rawdon was proud of his Horncastle Town players’ efforts after they exited the County Cup following a thrilling tie last weekend.
The Wongers were beaten 4-3 at home by Immingham Town, who are currently top of the Lincolnshire Premier League and needed a last-gasp winner at the end of extra-time to secure their place in the semi-finals.
An first minute goal had given Immingham a half-time lead, but Scott Lowman’s free-kick and a strike from Molice Harry turned things round after the break.
Immingham soon levelled but debutant Harley Stanton soon had Horncastle back in front, but Immingham came back again to level and force extra time.
Town had chances to win it in extra-time but it was Immingham who stole the victory with the penultimate touch of the game as a whipped corner was headed in at the back post.
Rawdon said: “It was a cracking tie but heart-breaking in the end for us. It was a great game – they are top of the league, we are second from bottom but nobody in the ground would have been able to tell who was who.
"I’m very proud of our players. We set our stall out and went out to play in a certain way and matched Immingham in everything they did.
"Of course I’m a bit biased but I don’t think anyone could argue that we were the better side and should have won the game.
"There was very little in it during extra-time and both teams looked tired and almost happy for it to get to penalties, then in the second-half we were denied by a world class save from their sub keeper.
"We’ve then given away a needless corner deep into stoppage time and somehow the corner was driven straight into the net to win them the game.
"It was obviously disappointing to lose to such a freak goal but every single one of our players was outstanding and they’ve done themselves proud.
"So many players deserve plaudits, including both of our 17-year-old wingbacks – Harley Stanton being superb and deserving his goal – while Lee Wilson was man-of-the-match as he was excellent throughout.”
Horncastle have more cup action this weekend when they host Wyberton in the Challenge Cup with a 1.30pm start at The Wong.