A last-gasp penalty sentences Clee Hill to agonising defeat against Cannock

A SUCCESSFUL penalty from the final play of the match sentenced Clee Hill to an agonising home defeat against promotion-rivals Cannock in Midlands Four West (North).

The experienced Gary Edwards is hoping the last-gasp defeat will inspire Hill for their derby clash against Cleobury Mortimer this Saturday.

Edwards said: “The Cannock kicker converted the penalty to steal the win and take away a deserved win for us.”

Hill, who had not played for three weeks due to the wet weather, fell behind to a penalty after 10 minutes.

But Hill bounced back with a Richard Wozencroft penalty and the hosts enjoyed some attacking play and squandered two good chances in the first half.

Cannock’s kicker booted the visitors 6-3 ahead but Edwards said Hill remained strong and finally crossed the line when Gareth Powell crashed over the line after a fine a catch and drive from a lineout.

But Hill were guilty of conceding too many penalties and halfway through the half they went down to 14 men when Edwards was yellow-carded for a high tackle.

Cannock’s kicker edged them 9-8 ahead but Hill looked to have sealed the game with five minutes to go.

Wozencroft kicked a penalty to put Hill 11-9 in front but the visitors snatched the points with a penalty from the final play.