AFC Emley renew their Toolstation Northern Counties East League First Division campaign at home to Teversal on Wednesday (7.45) desperate to bounce back after the disappointment of their FA Cup exit.
Hopes of reaching the first qualifying round for the first time in the club’s 11-year history were ended by a 3-2 preliminary round defeat at Maine Road, of the North West Counties League Premier Division.
Playing with a strong wind at their backs, Emley bossed the first half, creating numerous chances, but the home goalkeeper made several crucial saves and Matthew Morgan took advantage of a defensive mix-up to put Maine Road ahead on 25 minutes.
Ashley Flynn levelled three minutes into the second period, but further defensive mistakes allowed the Manchester side to net through Michael Burke and Jonathan Mason in the 59th and 60th minutes.
Emley piled on the pressure and a Liam Schofield goal seven minutes from time brought them back into game.
Gary Stevens kept the Huddersfield side’s chances alive by saving a penalty, but Maine Road held on for victory.
The clash with Teversal, who have one point from six, will be Emley’s second league game.
They suffered a 1-0 derby defeat at Penistone Church in their opener.
Emley will face Worksop Town in the third round of the NCEL Cup at the Fantastic Media Welfare Ground on Wednesday, November 9 (7.45).
