Late Burnham goal ends Heath’s FA Cup interest

COLNEY Heath boss Scott Lacey was bitterly disappointed his side failed to make the Second Qualifying Round of the FA Cup despite their good performance at Burnham.

Heath fell behind early on to Yashwa Romeo’s early goal but battled back and earned themselves a penalty. The usually reliable Ian Cooper however saw his spot kick saved by the Burnham goalkeeper but his afternoon was soon curtailed when he was dismissed for striking the Heath frontman.

The Magpies continued to battle and drew level midway through the second half when Jamie Eames successfully converted another spot kick. The visitors threw everything at their hosts in an attempt to avoid a replay but were caught out by a late sucker punch as Will Dunlop capitalised after Heath had failed to deal with a free kick.

“We’ve very disappointed, I thought we were the better team” admitted Lacey.

“Full credit to Burnham, they were well organised and I’m surprised by their league position, I don’t think they’ll be down there long.

“It was a very nice setup over there, they were very welcoming and I enjoyed the day but I’m disappointed we’re not in the draw for the next round.”

The Heath boss also praised the club’s travelling support and said: “I’d like to thank the supporters, it’s always nice to see a friendly face away from home.”

Heath didn’t dwell on their disappointment long though bouncing back to record an impressive 3-1 win over in-form Hoddesdon Town in the Challenge Cup.

Kevin Ashwood got the Magpies on their way early on and Eames soon doubled their lead. George Hunt pulled one back before the break but Dave Corran wrapped up the scoring with a third late on.

“We made some changes last night and people got their chance. We had Glen Draper and Steve Barker both at centre half and I thought they were excellent.

“I asked for professionalism and that’s what I got. It was an encouraging performance and as I’ve said before this squad will do things, all I’ve got to do is keep them happy.”

Heath turn their attentions to the FA Vase this Saturday when Hadley are the visitors – the first of three consecutive games against the same opponents.

“We’ve got Hadley at home in the Vase and it’s another massive game. Colney Heath has changed, it’s a good club, and I believe we can beat anybody at our level.

“We’ve got Hadley three times on the bounce which is a little bit strange but I’ll use my squad so I don’t give too much away.”