Brakes see red TWICE as they throw away lead

LEAMINGTON threw away a half-time lead and ended up with nine men as visitors Alfreton Town came from behind to win a feisty National League North clash 2-1.

Ben Usher-shipway slotted home for the Brakes after just 13 minutes, punishing a mistake from keeper George Willis, only for Town to level early in the second half when Dwayne Wiley fired past Callum Hawkins.

Bailey Hobson netted what proved to be Alfreton’s winner 20 minutes from time before the red mist fell. Leamington skipper Jack Edwards saw red for a coming together with Wiley and he was joined by teammate Jack Lane and much-travelled visiting striker Matt Rhead after they picked up second yellows.

Nuneaton Borough and Stratford Town were involved in the FA Trophy with contrasting outcomes. Boro saw off lower league Hinckley LR 2-0, both goals coming from Rev James in the space of three first half minutes, but there was disappointment for Stratford Town who lost 2-1 at home to Royston Town after the Bards were gifted an own goal inside two minutes.

Bedworth United were back to winning ways in the Northern Premier Midland Division, goals from Khaellem Bailey-nicholls and Curvin Ellis setting up a 2-0 win at Dereham Town, a result that saw them leap-frog their hosts in the table.

Rugby Town climbed to the top of UCL Premier South following their 2-0 win at Wellingborough Town where Jordan Wilson and David Kolodynski were on target. League rivals Coventry United were in League Knockout Cup action and a hat-trick from Joseph Agunbiade together with Jared Bradshaw effort helped ease them to a 4-0 win at home to Belper Town.

In the MFL Premier, Racing Club Warwick shared the points with visitors Lye Town following a thrilling 3-3 draw. Jamie Spiers scored twice for the hosts with the other coming from Josh Parson.

Atherstone Town also picked up a point after drawing 1-1 at Wolves Casuals but they needed a last gasp effort from Louis Baker to make it four games unbeaten.