Gaffer rues losing lead at Champion Hill

MACCLESFIELD Town manager John Askey admits the 2-2 draw at Dulwich Hamlet in the FA Trophy was a bittersweet result.

The Silkmen were held by their opponents at Champion Hill, despite leading the match 2-0 at one stage. The two teams were set to meet in a replay at the Moss Rose as the Express went to print on Tuesday, and while Askey was glad to still be in the competition at that stage, he was disappointed that his team squandered a lead.

“We always knew it would be tough, and we said before the game that if we came back with a draw we’d be happy,” he said.

“But being 2-0 up means I’m not as happy as I would’ve been. We’re still in the competition though and we’ve got a great chance of getting through.”

New signing Luke Summerfield got Macc’s goals, but they were pegged back after Quade Taylor and Ashley Carew netted for the hosts.

Despite Dulwich Hamlet being several divisions below Macclesfield, Askey knew it would be a tough battle.

“It was difficult. Dulwich have some decent players and it was a big crowd,” he said. “One or two decisions went their way that might not have in different circumstances as well, but that’s what happens when we go to grounds like that.”

If Macclesfield were able to beat Dulwich Hamlet in Tuesday’s replay, they would have booked a place in the semi-finals against National League rivals Tranmere Rovers, with that tie taking place over two legs.