LATCHFORD Albion fell to a controversial 18-16 defeat at Folly Lane when a 78th minute penalty goal was the only difference between the two sides.
In a tight first half the opening score did not come until the 25th minute when the hosts crossed for a converted try. A further penalty goal on the stroke of half time saw Folly hold the advantage at the break, with Albion still to open their account.
An early score by the hosts in the second half threatened to take the game away from the visitors, but they quickly fought their way back into the game with two quick fire scores on 60 and 63 minutes.
Firstly Josh Barnard weaved his way through the Folly defence, before Logan Lagar used his brute strength to power over. Both we converted by Jack Phillips to level the game at 12-12.
The hosts regained the lead with an unconverted try on 70 minutes, but they couldn’t shake Albion off, and when Charlie Groarke (pictured) dummied his was over the scores were level again going into the final five minutes.
With time running out the hosts kicked a penalty to nudge themselves in front.
Albion laid siege to the Folly line and right on the hooter they thought they had scored, but the referee harshly deemed they grounded the ball short of the line and that saw Albions final chance end as the hosts held out for the victory.
This Saturday sees Latchford on their travels again when they visit Blackbrook, kick off 2.30pm
