Cup heartbreak for Hyde

Hyde United were the victims of an upset in the final of the Manchester Premier Cup on Tuesday, with opponents Irlam picking up the trophy for the first time in their history. 

The North West Counties side took the lead just after the half-hour mark when Jack Mitchell smashed in from close range after John Johnston’s initial effort was parried back into danger. 

Aidan Roxburgh then put John Main’s side two up on the hour when he swept the ball home following a goal line clearance from Harry Ditchfield. 

The Tigers then found a route back into the game when Jack Redshaw fired in from the edge of the area, but Irlam restored their two-goal advantage just moments later when a defensive error from Will Hall allowed Ethan Cartwright to volley past Hiddleston. 

The centre back atoned for his mistake seven minutes from time when he halved the deficit once again, placing the ball into the bottom right corner to give Nick Spooner’s side hope. 

Despite their efforts, Hyde were unable to find an equaliser, with Irlam going on to lift the trophy. 

Following the defeat, Tigers boss Nick Spooner labelled it as a ‘very frustrating night’. 

“Credit to Irlam, they went at us, they broke with pace and fully deserved the win.   

“We were too careful, nobody was willing to run in behind. 

“The difference was their forwards wanted to run, and mine didn’t.” 

Spooner’s side are back in league action this Saturday, as they travel to Basford United.