Newark and Sherwood United suffer first defeat of the season against Anstey Nomads at home in front of 250 people at Station Road, Collingham

Free tickets were offered by Newark and Sherwood United to encourage as many fans as possible to go along to their first home game at Collingham.

And 250 people went along to Station Road to see United take on Anstey in the United Counties League Premier Division North.

But the team were less successful on the pitch ­— registering their first defeat of the league season with a 2-1 loss.

There were healthy food options for sale and special guest appearances by television chefs Ian Theasby and Henry Firth, from BOSH who were seen enjoying the game.

“It was a tight game and a positive display from the Highwaymen, but Anstey Nomads edged it on the day,” said a club spokesman.

The first-half was a lot of back and forward before the Nomad’s Corey Armeni belted one on the verge of half-time into the net for the visitors.

It was a fine strike from outside of the box to give the visitors a 1-0 half-time lead.

United levelled matters after the break when Luke white converted a penalty in the 60th minute.

However, Anstey got what proved to be the winner just three minutes later.

The United goalkeeper kept his team in the game with some tenacious saves helped by a determined defence.

United’s attackers had chances but were unable to convert, despite pushing hard for the late equaliser.

There was another defeat for Newark and Sherwood at home on Tuesday night when they lost 4-1 to Sleaford.