Improving Newark Town concede late winner

Ten-man Newark Town let a two-goal lead slip as they conceded a late winner to mid-table Phoenix, losing 4-3 at home.

Despite the defeat, the performance was one of their most promising since Christmas, showing pace and fluency going forward.

Newark, with just one win in nine matches, are sixth in Central Midlands League North.

In a frantic start, James Lloyd had the first chances for the hosts with a shot deflected wide and another straight at the keeper.

At the other end, Phoenix struck the post and forced a last-ditch save from Nathan Burrows.

Tyler Martin thought he had given Newark the lead in the 29th minute, but his effort was ruled offside.

Two minutes later the deadlock was broken as Phoenix scored from close-range.

Newark improved in the second-half and new signing Brad Scott’s free kick from outside the area narrowly missed the target.

The home side were rewarded for their strong start to the second period when Kieran Wall used his pace to beat his marker and shoot into the corner to level.

Damien Lloyd suffered an ankle injury and had to be replaced by a second new signing, Gary Clark, who also made a positive impact for the Blues.

Wall created Newark’s second goal as he saw his shot parried by the keeper into the path of Martin, who sent a diving header into the corner.

Two minutes later it was 3-1 when Clark’s lofted ball across the box was turned in neatly by Dom Swingler.

However, Phoenix fought back with a 30-yard piledriver and a 75th minute equaliser.

Wall limped off to leave Newark with ten men for the closing stages and four minutes from time the visitors snatched a winner.