LAKESIDE began their defence of the First Division Cup with a nail-biting penalty-shoot-out win over Broompark Loves. Lakeside had raced into a two-goal lead with goals by Morgan Fielding (first half) and Steve Hepples (second half).
But visiting Loves showed a fighting spirit and clawed their way back into the game - striker Brent Naylor leading the fightback with a brace.
It went from bad to worse for Lakeside when defender Chris Smith scored an own goal, but Andy Clay drew level to make it 3-3 after 90 minutes.
A goalless extra-time period ensued, with Lakeside just clinching the spot-kick contest with Loves missing their final penalty.
"I thought it was a very close game," said Lakeside manager Stuart Hodgson. "There was very little between the two sides and I think the Loves will count themselves unfortunate to have been knocked out by a penalty shoot-out."
Loves joint-manager Bill Wilkinson said: "I thought it would be a good game and it was - two good sides evenly matched. I thought we were unlucky to be honest. I thought we played well and it's always disappointing to lose any match, but to lose on a penalty shoot-out is very disappointing."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article