Lincoln United’s three game unbeaten run in the Northern Premier League East Division was brought to a halt by Brighouse Town as the visitors picked up a 4-1 win at the Sun Hat Villas and Resorts Stadium.
Scott Hellewell’s side approached their eleventh league game of the season on fine form, picking up seven points from their last three games and keeping a clean sheet on every occasion.
The visitors Brighouse Town found themselves 21st in the league before kick-off, sitting on just seven points from the opening ten games.
Before the match, the Lincoln United manager said: “Today is a big game. We’re back at home against a side who are currently struggling, and it’s one we need to be looking to win.”
A Very Long First Half
The Whites had their first opportunity in the 20th minute, Owen Vincent whipped a free kick up and over the wall, but his strike rippled the side netting of Michael Acquah’s net.
Vincent was in the thick of the action once again in the 30th minute, winning his side a penalty after being taken out by Brighouse’s captain Harvey Booth.
Lincoln United’s captain Elliot Dye stepped up to take the penalty and effortlessly smashed the ball into the top corner, leaving Acquah with no chance.
The visitors hit back just before half time through Youssef Chentouf. The right winger equalised after an amazing run down the flank and a superb strike that snuck in at the near post.
The half went on for just under an hour after the fourth official indicated 12 minutes of added time at the end of the original 45. A red card for Brighouse manager Grant Black and a head collision between Sam Swinn and Brandon Murillo were the main reasons behind the delay.
A Bitterly Disappointing Second Half
The hosts nearly got their noses in front ten minutes into the second half, Henry Moore headered down a great cross into the box but a fully outstretched Elliot Dye couldn’t apply the finishing touch.
But it was Romario Dunne who put the visitors ahead in the 61st minute, heading home from just outside the six-yard box to make it 2-1.
Brighouse sealed the three points with ten minutes to go after a fast counter attack led to Nathan Curtis receiving the ball just inside the box, the forward didn’t disappoint, striking his effort beautifully on the half volley into the net past Richardson for 3-1 to the visitors.
The day just kept getting worse and worse for the Whites after Curtis made it four just five minutes later, applying a clinical finish to complete his brace and make it 4-1.
Full-Time result: Lincoln United 1-4 Brighouse Town
It was a disappointing afternoon for Lincoln United but they will be eager to bounce back as soon as possible, facing Bridlington Town in just three days time on Tuesday, October 14.