Stamford’s season ended with a 2-1 defeat against Belper Town in a highly charged promotion play-off semi-final at Borderville. Having finished the season as runners-up in the Northern Premier League Midlands Division, Stamford went into the match as favourites, but were unable to overcome a spirited Belper team.
The Daniels dominated possession and territory in the first half but the match turned in the five minutes leading up to half-time when a breakaway goal by Belper was followed moments later by a red card for Stamford defender Marshall Willock. Playing with ten men, Stamford continued to impress in the second half and had a penalty saved by the Belper goalkeeper but, after withstanding concerted Stamford pressure, Belper added a second goal late in the game. As the match entered stoppage time, Stamford finally breached the Belper defences with a fabulous strike by Cosmos Matwasa, setting up a frantic few minutes before the final whistle.
The crowd of 984 gave Stamford a rousing ovation at the end of match, in recognition of a brave performance and an excellent season. Stamford ended the regular season with a remarkable sequence of nine consecutive victories, taking them to second place in the Midlands Division, only three points behind champions Ilkeston Town.
After Chasetown defeated Halesowen Town in the other play-off semi-final, Belper will pay Chasetown in the play-off final.
201 bus route affected by road closure in Stamford
Road safety improvements on the A43
Feasibility study to establish a museum at Stamford Town Hall
Seven week consultation now under way for Local Government Reorganisation
Police officers save man's life in Uppingham
Concerns about several buildings and sites around Stamford
Benedict's Law takes a step forward
Kilnside Energy Park no longer being developed
Police warn of doorstep scam
Benedict's Law to be debated in the House of Lords
Oakham Library now open
Weekend sports round up
