Sleaford Town's FA Vase adventure ends unluckily

Fourth round

Sunderland RCA 3

Sleaford Town 2

The Greens’ FA Vase adventure came to an unlucky end in the north east, but they could be proud of their performance.

It was Sleaford who took the lead 11 minutes in, Jack Pemberton heading in after a Ryan Oliver effort from a corner came back off the crossbar.

Michael Charlton levelled for RCA after 23 minutes, sweeping the ball home after Kenny Gordon won the ball in the Sleaford area.

The hosts went in front four minutes later with a towering set piece header from Liam Hatch, Luke Proctor providing the delivery.

Sleaford had the better of the second period and deserved their equaliser. With 15 minutes remaining Brad Hockin slotted home a loose ball to level for the Greens.

RCA won the contest 10 minutes from time with a great long distance chip from Charlton who caught Phil McGann off his line.

Sleaford defender David Hone was red carded for retaliation in stoppage time.

Sleaford Town comprised Phil McGann, Corey Newman (Zac Wright), Adam Fenton, Harry Millard, Charlie Ward, David Hone, Brad Hockin (Ryan Anderson), Joe Smith, Ryan Oliver, Jack Pemberton and Luke Hollingsworth (George Asplin).

See this week’s Sleaford Standard for full report and photos.