Hoxne’s winning run brought to an end

TOUCHLINE SUFFOLK & IPSWICH LEAGUE

DIVISION ONE

Benhall St Mary 2

AFC Hoxne 1

AFC Hoxne saw their impressive nine-game winning run in all competitions brought to an abrupt end as they slipped to a narrow 2-1 defeat away at Benhall St Mary.

Top scorer Brett Bellamy was sent off after eight minutes for continual dissent and substitute Kiefer Bultitude received his marching orders in the second half for a similar offence.

Despite being reduced to 10-men effectively for the whole game, Hoxne battled well and looked like winning the game until late on.

Robert Peake brought a fine save out of home keeper Darren Warner after 20 minutes, before Benhall had two chances to score.

Visiting right-back Aaron Boorman cleared an effort off the line before teammate Max Locke made a good save from Christoff Sillett.

However, Hoxne’s efforts were rewarded as they took a lead into half time through a stunning 25-yard right-foot shot by Liam Smith.

Hoxne, who could face Benhall in the Suffolk Junior Cup final, defended resolutely in the second half, and went close to increasing their lead as Bobby Varela fired just wide.

The game turned 15 minutes from time as the home team drew level.

Hoxne’s left back James Denny, who had played well up until that point, mistimed a tackle in his own penalty area and a spot kick was awarded. Pemberton Russ stepped up to convert from the spot before Chris Wright proceeded to win the game with a close range finish five minutes from time.