Frustration for Hinckley’s two teams as FA Cup ties both end in stalemates

LEICESTER Road have had to settle for a replay in the FA Cup Extra Preliminary round.

Neil Lyne’s men travelled to Nottinghamshire’s Retford United and, despite a commanding performance, were unable to come away with a victory.

A dominant first half from Leicester Road ended goalless, before Matty Stenson’s cross found Luke Kingsley Smith who opened the scoring early in the second half.

The Badgers managed to claw their way back into the game though and grabbed a goal.

Stenson was again involved in Leicester Road’s attacking play and was brought down in the penalty area.

Retford were reduced to 10 men, but Stenson was unable to covert the penalty.

The game ended 1-1, with the reverse leg taking place at Leicester Road on Tuesday August 9.

Hinckley AFC suffered a similar fate against Heanor Town.

The St John’s Park side had to play a vastly depleted team through a mixture of injuries, suspension and holidays, with James Williams, Shaquille Lee and Jamal Clarke making their debuts.

Despite this, Hinckley had the better of the opening exchanges and took the lead through Ryan Paddock just before half-time.

Heanor grew into the game and equalised on 65 minutes when Elliott Reeves converted from close range.

Both teams had a chance to win the game with Nathan Benger’s header going just wide for the visitors while David Blenkinsopp was inches away from Hinckley.

Both teams will play again at Heanor Town on Wednesday August 10.

Barwell FC, who last season reached the First Round before losing to Welling United, are due to join the competition later this month. No draw has yet been made.