Ten-man Bosham battle back for a point

Both teams started at a frenetic pace, with each keeper having to be at their best.

Joe Hancock had a great chance for the Reds when he had only the keeper to beat after build-up work from Graeme Dowden and a slide-rule pass. Hancock’s quick shot was brilliantly saved by Dave Condon.

Steve Martin and Rob Mills posed a threat for Ifield and more than once had the Reds defence in trouble but the finishing touch eluded them.

Just before the break, Bosham edged in front with a spectacular strike from top scorer Kieran Hartley. Hancock floated a ball over the top and the striker latched on to it and volleyed it over Condon’s head.

Less than ten minutes into the second half, John Pope was drawn into a challenge by Mills, and referee Michael Ryan gave the spot-kick. He controversially showed a red card to the Bosham keeper.

Manager Tony Hancock sacrificed an outfield player to enable sub keeper Michael Rodway to come on but he was well beaten by Chris Aston from the spot.

Bosham lifted themselves and played some superb football.

Neil Redman, James Bracher and Marco Giambelardini all went close to grabbing a winner.

BOSHAM: Pope, Stent, Brett, Blanshard, Jack Hancock, Probee, Joe Hancock, Dowden, Giambelardini, Maunder, Hartley. Subs: Rodway, Redman, Bracher.

ALAN PRICE