By Martin Eastwood
Emley AFC’s FA Cup involvement was ended in the 1st qualifying round with a 1-0 defeat at Morpeth Town despite the home side finishing the game with nine men.
A goal just before half-time from Luke James proved enough for a Morpeth side which plays in a division above Emley.
James headed the only goal just before half-time before Morpeth skipper Jeff Henderson was sent off for pulling down Amir Berchil who was about to break clear.
With the extra man Emley dominated much of the second half and Chris Dawson had Emley’s best chance, smashing a long range shot which the keeper did superbly well to tip over the bar. From the resulting corner, Alex Metcalfe fired over.
Emley kept on pushing but Morpeth did everything to frustrate the Pewits and their fans. With the game entering its closing stages, Emley were trying everything, all five subs were used and they all made a positive impact.
Al Keita burst into the box and was sent tumbling but the referee waved away penalty appeals.
Right on 90 minutes the home side had a second player sent off. Sub Josh King was given a second yellow card for time-wasting.
Emley had a succession of corners but again they were repelled. The only chance Emley had was a Metcalfe shot straight at the keeper.
It was Emley’s first defeat of the season and next it’s an FA trophy tie with Dunston at the Fantastic Media Welfare Ground on Friday (September 6).
