Avro boss rues last-four defeat

FOOTBALL:

AVRO manager Phil Brown pointed to some mitigating circumstances after his side were beaten 7-2 by Stockport Georgians in the Bridgewater Office Supplies Manchester League Gilgryst Cup semi-finals.

Players are only eligible to participate in the competition if they have played at least six league games — and more than half of Brown’s regular XI only signed at the turn of the year, ruling them out of this last-four clash.

To make matters worse, utility man Vincent Howells was dismissed for dissent after 20 minutes.

James Hampton got two late consolation goals for Avro.

Brown said: “First things first, Stockport were the better side and we got what we deserved — nothing.

Manchester League. But circumstances also conspired against us, it has to be said.

“Six lads could not play because of the six-game rule; we have been carrying a couple of injuries, and we were down to a bare 11 — then Vincent got sent off.

“By the time it got to 4-0, I could see the lads’ heads drop, and even though we got it back to 5-2 the contest was beyond us.”

As for the red card, Brown had no complaints but felt there was a lack of consistency in decisions made by the officials.

Avro face neighbours Royton Town in the league tomorrow, with Brown likely to shuffle the pack.

He added: “Even though I can defend the lads up to a point for the Gilgryst Cup loss, we have lost both games since lifting the Manchester FA Challenge Trophy, so I am not happy.

“A few of the players are in for a wake-up call when I announce the team this weekend.”