Playing their first league game for a month Lowestoft failed to find any real rhythm but still finished up winning by the odd goal of three against Wingate & Finchley. Injuries received in midweek ruled out both Craig Bussens and Gary McGee.

Lowestoft made the ideal start by scoring in their first attack after just 3 minutes. Neil Plaskett’s throw was touched on by Jamie Godbold into the path of Scott Mitchell who blasted the ball into the top corner from the edge of the penalty area.

That goal stung the visitors into action and they pressed Lowestoft back. Chris Chase made ground down the right and crossed to James Edgerley whose goal bound shot was turned wide by Neil Plaskett. From the resultant corner Ahmet Rifat’s spectacular overhead kick was headed off the line by Andrew Fisk.

Play settled down to a midfield battle with both defences on top until Lowestoft doubled their lead in the 34th minute. From Greg Crane’s free kick Darren Cockrill rose to nod the ball on but as he fell the referee pointed to the penalty spot. Matt Nolan stepped up to coolly convert his second spot kick of the week.

Wingate replied almost immediately as they pulled a goal back min the 40th minute. David Laird made a run from midfield, left three defenders trailing before shooting past Andy Reynolds. The visitors pressed for an equaliser as the half came to an end and Andy Reynolds turned a 25 yard drive from Leon Smith around the post and then the Wingate striker tamely played the ball into Reynolds’ hands after a corner had been hooked on by Craig Ellis.

Lowestoft saw more of the ball in the second period and were close to a 3rd goal as Matty Potter sent a 30 yard rocket narrowly wide. Jamie Godbold was even closer as he took a return pass from Matt Nolan but saw his 25 yard effort smack against the post and bounce clear.

A short corner routine between Jamie Godbold and Matt Nolan ended with Darren Cockrill heading the ball back across the face of the goal but wide of the far post.

Wingate thought they had equalised following an excellent run down the right by James Edgerley who pulled the ball back to Leon Smith whose short range drive was superbly turned over the bar by Andy Reynolds.

There was one last chance for Lowestoft as Matt Nolan combined with substitute Adam Smith but from the cross Scott Mitchell was unable to get a decisive touch.

Terry Lynes

Match Information

Score: Lowestoft Town - 2      Wingate & Finchley - 1

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