FC Isle of Man slip to defeat at Barnoldswick Town

It was the Ravens' second match in less than 24 hours

FC Isle of Man's second game in as many days ended in disappointment as they slipped to a 5-2 defeat at Barnoldswick Town in the NWCFL Premier Division this afternoon (13 April).

The home side led at half-time through goals from Jack Foster and Ryan Moore after FC Isle of Man had led through Tom Creer who capitalised on a Barnoldswick Town error.

A double from Gareth Hill in the second 45 as well as a strike from substitute Connor High saw the hosts cruise to all three points whilst FC Isle of Man earned a late consolation through Daniel Gerrard.

In a clash of tactical styles in the opening stages, it was the visiting Manx side who took the lead courtesy of a Barnoldswick Town error.

A poor pass to 'Barlick' goalkeeper, Callum Jakovlevs was latched onto by Creer who went on to round Jakovlevs and slot home.

The hosts nearly provided an instant response as a square pass found Gareth Hill unmarked from close range who scuffed his shot wide.

Providing a greater threat, Barnoldswick Town were then level on 27 minutes as a ball through the FC Isle of Man defence found Foster who calmly placed a strike past Ravens' stopper, Ben Wilkinson to level the contest.

Growing into the half, Barnoldswick Town began to increase the pressure and took the lead for the first time in the 37th minute as a Luke Stowe Cross found Moore who sent his well-controlled volley past Wilkinson for the home side's second.

Into the second period and the Island side's task became tougher five minutes after the restart as an Andy Hill corner was met by Gareth Hill at the far post who nodded home to double Barnoldswick Town's advantage.

As the travelling side struggled to find a response, a quick free-kick on 53 minutes released Ste Whitley who saw his resulting effort well stopped by Jakovlevs.