Morpeth ‘shot themselves in foot’ – boss

MORPETH Town manager Stephen Turnbull believes his side “shot themselves in the foot” during their FA Trophy defeat against Notts County.

The Highwaymen matched the National League promotion challengers for large parts of the third round tie – but saw their Trophy run ended by a ruthless performance by the visitors.

Goals from Jimmy Knowles, Sam Graham and Elisha Sam were enough to help the Magpies into Monday’s fourth round draw and left Turnbull disappointed with certain aspects of his side’s performance.

The Town manager said: “I am disappointed, and I think we shot ourselves in the foot.

“We conceded a poor early goal and that lets them relax and play the way they want to play.

“It would have been a tough task for us to beat Notts County if we are being realistic.

“We’ve had one game in five weeks and they’re a professional side.

“I am disappointed, but the focus now goes on the league.”

Meanwhile, the Highwaymen have been given the opportunity to restart their season on Boxing Day after the Northern Premier League revealed their stance over the return of competitive fixtures.

The league confirmed in a statement released on Saturday that clubs in areas under tier two and three restrictions can host home games with supporters in attendance.

However, despite putting pressure on the government, the league confirmed that it would be unrealistic to expect permission to be given for clubhouses and food and drink outlets at grounds to be opened.

A league statement read: “The NPL wants to avoid, if possible, a second consecutive season being declared null and void. Clubs should therefore bear in mind that any further fixture suspensions could increase this risk.

“It has, therefore, been decided that playing league fixtures on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day will now be optional.

“Clubs who wish to continue with fixtures arranged for the 22/26/28/29-Dec and 01/02-Jan have the option to play those matches where both clubs are in agreement.”