FCUM 1-1 BPAFC

By Chris,
April 25 2009

So close, yet so far. FC United of Manchester have missed out on the Northern Premier League play-offs after failing to beat Bradford Park Avenue on Saturday. Three points would have been enough to secure a top five finish but, despite taking the lead, the Red Rebels had to settle for a 1-1 draw.

A bumper crowd was at Gigg Lane as FC United fans nervously awaited one of the Rebels' biggest games since the breakaway club was formed.

Karl Marginson's men entered the match in a rich vein of form and haven't been beaten since March 8th. There were so many permutations but the bottom line was that, in all probability, a win would be enough.

The afternoon started brilliantly for the majority of the 3,718 in attendance as Nicky Platt's free-kick caused chaos in the BPA penalty-area. Adam Tong took advantage as he drilled the ball home.

However, the killer blow came with just five minutes remaining. FC had the play-offs in sight when Mark Bett's crashing effort hit the back of the net.

Kendall Town's late winner over Buxton meant they secured a play-off berth at FC's expense. The Rebels finish sixth in the Northern Premier League table.

A draw was not good enough for FCUM or BPA - the two teams finishing 6th and 7th respectively. Both sets of fans left the ground disappointed with dreams of Conference North football over for another season.

FC United have never failed to win promotion before - so the club face a challenge to maintain momentum and motivation as the club prepares for its fifth season in existence. Undoubtedly, the Northern Premier League title will be the extent of the club's ambitions next season.

Full Time - FC United of Manchester 1-1 Bradford Park Avenue
Attendance - 3,718