Sandbach United lose 3-1 in the playoff semi-final against Abbey Hey.

Abbey Hey FC scored three goals in the first half to secure their place in the NWCFL South playoff final.

Written by Daniel Needham.

Red vs Blue, 3rd vs 4th, Cheshire vs Greater Manchester. This play-off semi final included two teams separated by just one league position and three points.

Sandbach were looking to continue their momentum after a 3-1 victory against Stafford Town last week, in order to play against the winner of Stockport Town and Droylsden in the playoff final.

The Ramblers commenced with a strong eleven, including Jake Pollard and Kieran Alley on the wings, whilst top scorer George Kattah started as a forward.

Abbey Hey FC took the lead after only 8 minutes, after Sandbach were vulnerable in defence after a counterattacking opportunity. A close range shot from Rhys Clooney soared into the roof of the net to put the Abbey ahead.

Following Abbey Hey’s goal, Kieran Alley created multiple chances from the wing. Along with a fantastic dribble which got him in behind three defenders, before his shot sailed over the crossbar.

In the 28th minute, the visitors extended their lead. Rhys Clooney hit it home for Abbey Hey once again with a forceful, gliding shot from long range which goalkeeper, Joseph Lawton, could not keep out of his net.

Shortly before the half-time whistle, Joshua Dickin put the Abbey 3-0 up. Dickin was brought down in the box, yet still managed to get a foot on the ball for it to roll into the back of the net.

The second half saw a completely different play style and mindset from Bach. The hosts were constantly attacking and looked more enterprising in comparison to the first 45 minutes. However, during the beginning of the second half, Sandbach were lacking the ability to produce in the final third, with many opportunities going to waste.

Despite this, Sandbach eventually pulled one back in the 74th minute. Harry Cain took an ambitious shot from outside of the box which travelled into the bottom left corner. At this stage, Bach had a glimpse of hope that they would be able to come back.

Sandbach United almost scored another goal, in which they were desperately searching for, with a promising cross from Kieran Alley which found Stan Tatters unmarked in the penalty area. Tatters narrowly missed the target as his aerial shot flew over the bar.

Although the Ramblers resumed to have several chances on goal, Abbey Hey did well to park the bus and not allow Sandbach to get back into the game after Cain’s goal. Abbey Hey FC controlled the play in the first half which enabled them to sit back in the second half and maintain their lead.

Sandbach will now prepare for next season after todays play-off semi final loss at Hind Heath Road.