Bucks Beaten at Runcorn

Notorious slow starters @Bootle_FC continue to look off the pace in the early stages of this season, writes Jordan Ellis.

The Bucks edged the early stages at the Viridor Community Stadium but failed to carve out any real chances.

To the bemusement of all in attendance the referee awarded Runcorn a penalty after Dave Forbes appeared to fall over the ball in the Bootle box.

42’ Paul McManus made no mistake from the spot as he slotted home to give Runcorn a 1-0 lead.

45+1’ Things went from bad to worse before half time as Craig Cairns got behind the Bootle defence to put Runcorn 2-0 ahead.

Bootle pushed throughout the second half for goal but failed to create any real chances.

A clear handball by a Runcorn defender in his own box went unseen by the referee who incensed the Bucks fans by waving away their protests.

History was made as the game edged towards its conclusion as Bootle GK Ryan Jones became the first player to be sin binned for the club.

The Bootle #1 was forced off the field for 10 minutes. Steven Hoy the man tasked with tending goal during his absence.

A 2-0 defeat ends an incredible 23 game unbeaten league run for the Bucks who’ll need to vastly improve in order to meet high expectations for the season ahead.

The Bucks face a mid-week away trip to Ashton Athletic as the search continues for a much needed first win of the season.