Guernsey Press

Corinthian-Casuals 1, Guernsey FC 0

ANOTHER midweek away trip, another defeat – but it wasn't quite the same old story for Guernsey's trip to King George's Field.

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For the Green Lions, it was a night of mixed emotions – mainly frustration, controversy, injustice, hope and pride.

Not for the first time this season, or even those preceding it, Tony Vance had just 13 players at his disposal – thanks to more injuries to key players – and just one rookie outfield substitute who had yet to taste Ryman South football.

There were only three recognised defenders in the squad, which meant a reshuffle and rare starts for Paris Pereira and Etienne Le Prevost.

But despite being second-best for the first and third quarters, GFC grew into the game midway through both halves and created the most clear-cut chances only to be thwarted by a blinder from Corinthian-Casuals keeper Danny Bracken.

Vance hailed his side's battling qualities as they chased an equaliser to a goal that should not have stood.

Corinthian-Casuals have historic links with Brazil, but their 12th-minute winner was more akin to a certain Argentinian in the 1980s.

Chris Tardif was apoplectic at the failure of referee Matt Eva and his assistant to spot that Emmanuel Akokhia had used his arm to help the ball over the line from Niall Wright's cross.

The Sarnian stopper was booked for his prolonged protests but he was not short of support from his colleagues, who understandably felt a lack of justice.

'The result was taken out of our hands,' Vance said afterwards. 'Unfortunately, mistakes have cost us a result. Take that judgement error out and we'd have got at least a point.

'I'm really proud of the lads for once again dealing with the ridiculous resources we had but producing a great showing. We deserved more.'

  • More in Wednesday’s Guernsey Press.

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