Lostock 1 Grappenhall Sports 2

SPORTS picked up a much-needed three points on the road after a hard earned 2-1 win at Lostock in a fiery encounter that saw both teams reduced to 10 men.

Lostock controlled the opening quarter of the Cheshire Football League clash and were earning lots of set pieces that Sports managed to defend well and 17-year-old Ben, a debutant in nets, was confident from the start in controlling his area well.

Sports grew into the half and were becoming a bit more of a threat eight minutes before the break.

That turned into a goal when Dan Sisson struck home a stunning volley from the edge of the box.

It was a half Sports worked hard in and the tackles were flying about in the middle of the park.

Sports came out brightly after the break and early changes from the bench saw Sports looking much brighter.

However a stunning volley from the home side saw them level at 1-1.

Soon after the ref started to flash his cards and then the middle of a park that was so fiery turned nasty. A home midfielder was sent off for an incident that led to fighting between both sides.

Ben Howard, the victim of the challenge, also saw red after being given a second yellow for handball before the incident.

Tempers were boiling but the sending offs seemed to suit Sports more and within minutes Matt Ball pounced on an error to slot past the keeper in style.

The game was now end-to-end with both sides missing further chances.

The contest remained hot headed but was interluded with elements of real quality, especially from Odi Koubemba.

Grappenhall manager Darren Davies said: "That was a battle. A real feisty affair.

“I must start by saying how good our 17-year-old keeper was on his first team debut. Absolutely superb.

“Odi from the bench was a dream to watch as well. I thought everyone played their part. The subs all made a big impact as well. We needed that.

“There were some harsh words said between us after the game last week but the reaction shows that it was needed as it's had a positive impact. I'm delighted."