Defeat at Workington doesn't dampen FC United's celebrations

FC United may have ended the season with a 1-0 defeat, but the result in no way dampened the celebrations as the Champions bade farewell to the Evo-Stik League. Matthew Tymon’s first-half strike was all that came between the two sides who finished the season in first and second place. Workington were playing to secure a home advantage in the play-offs and their victory sealed their position as runners-up behind United.

Karl Marginson rung in the changes following Tuesday’s championship winning performance, demonstrating the strength of the squad which has surely been a key factor in FC United’s success this season.

The home side pressed early on and Dave Carnell was forced into two great saves on the bounce before a Workington free kick rattled off the woodwork and Tymon blasted over from the rebound, allowing the Reds some respite.

A completely changed back four for United were showing signs of unfamiliarity and a lack of communication saw Workington awarded a soft corner. Luckily this came to no end, but it wasn’t long before Tymon put his side ahead, latching onto a through-ball and slotting past a grounded Carnell.

Just after half time, Tom Greaves replaced Michael Norton; the latter having made his first start since returning from injury. Minutes later Tymon had perhaps the first chance of the half, striking across goal after a half clearance from Nia Bayunu.

FC United took the next and perhaps their best chance of the game. After good attacking play, Craig Lindfield crossed from the right for Matthew Walwyn to head on target; an effort that Jonny Jamieson was well matched to.

Workington had the ball in the net again with just less than 20 minutes to play, but the goal was disallowed and a free kick was awarded to United. Shortly after, the Reds made a double substitution with Callum Byrne and Tom Brown being replaced by Rory Fallon and Greg Daniels.

The final opportunity of the game saw a Workington free kick hit the post before rebounding off Carnell’s head for FC United to clear and deny the home side a chance to increase the score line.

You would be hard-pressed to find a post-match conversation which centred around yesterday’s result. Instead, the lasting memory of United’s closing day will be the team, management and fans alike coming together to celebrate what has been a fantastic season and in doing so encapsulating the true spirit of this thing of ours.

Report by Victoria Fullen

Website Man of the Match: Dave Birch – did well to command an unfamiliar back four line-up.