Frustrating Vase exit for toothless Rainworth

The previous Tuesday saw them put in a competitive performance against one of the title favourites, Handsworth Parramore.

One Saturday, however, they went out on the FA Vase, losing 2-0 at a combative Long Eaton United in the Vase.

Injuries and suspensions robbed them of key players, but the Wrens were weak in attack.

The opening goal came in the 21st minute when an innocuous ball into the area fell into the path of Andy Todd, who beating Ben Townsend at his near post.

Rainworth went close to an equaliser when from James Munson’s head-on, Niall Smith was denied by a fingertip save.

Munson hit the underside of the bar in the second half, but in the 63rd minute at the other end a hopeful ball upfield saw the unmarked Grant Ryan run through to score.

Rainworth had a chance in the 78th minute but Smith’s effort was deflected into the arms of Low.

Long Eaton went close in the 84th minute when a great finger-tip save by Townsend prevented Zak Goodson adding to the scoreline.

Rainworth had a couple of chances in the dying minutes when firstly Daniel Booth’s effort went just over and then Dakouri’s free-kick hit the wall and deflected into Low’s hands.

Rainworth must now regroup and prepare for what is a very important local derby against Clipstone, who will be eyeing their first points of the campaign.

RAINWORTH MWFC: Townsend; Ludlam; Claxton; Booth; Wilson; Pemberton: Royles (Barnes); Waddle; Munson (Dakouri); Bebbington; N. Smith.

Sub (not used); Francis.

Attendance: 84