Dominant Merthyr Tydfil see red

Mar 9 2008 by Staff Reporter, Wales On Sunday

Chippenham 3-1 Merthyr Tydfil

THE Martyrs returned from high-flying Chippenham Town wondering just how they had lost this Premier Division encounter after dominating large chunks of the 90 minutes.

Matthew Harris’ dismissal on 55 minutes for kicking the ball away was undoubtedly the catalyst for the home side’s victory after Merthyr had dominated the first hour.

They had gone in front after just eight minutes, Marcus Griffiths claiming the final touch to Craig Steins’ right-footed cross.

But Chippenham hit back within 60 seconds as Gary Funnell beat Ashley Morris from 12 yards.

That didn’t stop Merthyr who continued to create chance after chance.

Steins was denied by a superb save from Chippenham goalkeeper Chris Snoddy, the man of the match.

The sending-off changed the course of the game and within five minutes Chippenham were 3-1 ahead as first Sam Allison and then Scott Lye scored from close range. Allison later received a red card for a kick out at Andrew Thomas.