Now six games since an away victory, The Village trudged off the pitch and clapped our excellent travelling fans in the pouring rain, even after a performance which was largely positive.

A difficult first half to watch still contained a few good chances for both teams.

Our hosts started strongly forcing a couple of saves from Hugo Bennett, who’s been in fine form during this work experience period.

The best of his work was a terrific left-handed save as he dove across the plastic turf to turn past the post.

Callum Petch had our best chance of the half, a brilliantly executed quick counterattack produced a one-on-one opportunity for the forward, but his effort was saved and just about diverted away from an onrushing Kurtis Havenhand.

In between these periods of action, the game consisted of ponderous build-up and 50/50 battles.

Kallum Reid put on a fine display though at right back, rarely losing the ball and playing numerous passes into dangerous areas while more than holding his own against a physically taller and stronger winger.

At the break, neither side will have been happy with their performances which culminated in a 0-0 scoreline.

Whatever was said at the break in the Golcar changing room helped to produce a strong second half showing.

Right from the off, Petch pinged a ball into the box which found Bedeau, but the header was right into the hands of The Ambers’ goalkeeper Pollard.

The Village grew in confidence following this effort to have the better of the next 15 minutes.

Near misses from Petch were the best chances, one a volley from the edge of the box and the other a miscontrolled ball from Waddy which would’ve given Callum a clear sight of goal.

On the hour mark, Handsworth started to show why they’re up there in the league in an increasingly entertaining game.

Tavares was the danger man for The Ambers, his quick feet and pace were difficult to handle, a pullback by him was blazed over by Dunne from inside the area.

A flurry of chances then fell for the hosts including another for Dunne.

The 136 in attendance enjoyed an end-to-end game for the last 15 minutes but unfortunately it was Handsworth who found a late opener, with 10 to go, as Harry Jessop latched on to a ball over the top before finishing past Bennett one-on-one.

This goal came largely against the run of play with Golcar having pressed up the pitch for a good period before.

But the lads continue to do so even following this late blow and found a leveler through substitute Rion Arbouin, who was brilliant after coming on heading across goal and into the far corner.

That wasn't the end of it though and unfortunately a late penalty was won and converted by Ruthven shortly after, in a wild period of three goals in five minutes right at the tale end of the game.

Sadly the chaos couldn't continue and despite a great late effort the lads were unable to nick a point.

Thank you to all the fans who made the journey and we'll be back at The Skye Direct on Tuesday night as we face Leeds UFCA in the West Riding County Cup Second Round.

See you there, Up The Village!

GOLCAR UNITED: Bennett, Reid, Morrissey, Wadsworth (C), Lawrence, Durham, Bedeau, Naidole, Havenhand, Petch, Kilbourn.
SUBS: M. Arbouin, Stead, R. Arbouin (64'), Dunkley (90'), Eriamiator (90').