Gorleston 2, Ely City 3THEGreens were naturally dis-appointed at the defeat by the second-placed Robins at Emerald Park on Saturday, particularly as they had led by 2-0 well into the second half.

Gorleston 2, Ely City 3

THEGreens were naturally dis-appointed at the defeat by the second-placed Robins at Emerald Park on Saturday, particularly as they had led by 2-0 well into the second half.

Ely are a very strong, experienced side and physically are able to exploit a significant advantage in height, which in this case proved decisive at set pieces.

Barring severe lapses in form both leaders Tiptree and Ely appear Ridgeons Division One promotion certainties. The third promotion spot is very much in question with at least eight teams, including Gorleston, in the equation. Some of these teams also experienced setbacks on Saturday - and had Gorleston held onto their lead they would now stand fifth in the league table.

Tomorrow, Gorleston entertain Long Melford 3pm. On Tuesday, they entertain neighbours Great Yarmouth Town at Emerald Park, 7.45pm.

Gorleston are the second highest scorers in Ridgeons Division One with 72 goals, behind Diss with 74. They had a wealth of experience on their bench with Gary Todd, Ricci Butler, Nathan Drake, Louis Turner and Regan Harman as substitutes.

The match opened at a fast pace but with both defences firm very few chances were created. John Bell played wide on the right

for Gorleston, who had a three-man

midfield in Richie Fruin, Jack Marsden and Peter Lambert.

Ely went close to taking the lead when Mark Paul crashed a terrific shot against the woodwork. Richie Fruin drew an excellent save from Ely keeper Lee Pacey but on

45 minutes he scored with a superbly-placed free-kick.

Gorleston made an ideal start to the second half when in the 48th minute Gary Ingram released strike partner Nathan Thompson to finish in style with a low drive.

At this stage Gorleston appeared to be well in control and Gary Ingram came close to a third goal when he lobbed the ball inches over.

The lead reduced to 2-1 after 73 minutes when Ely striker Andy Pettit netted following a left-wing corner. Gary Ingram and John Bell came off and were substituted by Regan Harman and Ricci Butler.

On 86 minutes Ely equalised when a long throw-in on the left was bundled in from

close range.

Five minutes time was added and controversy reigned at the finish. The Ely keeper clearly handled outside his area.

The linesman signalled it, only for the referee to over-rule him. Andy Chatters took a corner kick on the right and floated it into the top of the net.

There was no time to restart the game.