The Creake Charity Shield final produced everything a paying spectator wishes to see in a cup final - goals, red cards and controversy - as Littleport Town triumphed over their Cambs League rivals Eaton Socon Reserves to lift the shield last night.
The NMC 1B division rivals went head-to-head in search of silverware infront of over 300 soggy fans at a rain-soaked Unwin Ground, and Littleport got off to the perfect start when Danny Gibbs latched onto a loose ball and slotted home midway through the first period.
Littleport’s lead didn’t last long, as 12 minutes later the Huntingdonshire side’s Connor Heaps was ironically left in a heap in the box, and Ben Argyle duly converted the spot kick to bring the two teams level.
The men from East Cambs were then reduced to 10 men when Nik Marsh was given a second yellow following a clash with Eaton Socon stopper Simon White.
White would controversially be involved in Littleport’s winner, as he was adjudged to have held down a Littleport man in the box just after the hour.
Referee Mark Ives pointed to the spot, and Dean Grogan slotted in the game’s second penalty to put the 10 men in front.
Eaton Socon battled desperately to find an equaliser in the final 20 minutes, but a dogged defensive display ensured that Littleport lifted the shield.
The two teams return to league action tomorrow, with both facing tough tests.
Littleport, who are fourth in the league standings, take on third-placed Fordham, and Eaton Socon will look to bounce back and inflict league-toppers Wisbech St Mary’s second defeat of the season when they meet at 3pm.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here