City of Peterborough count the cost of three mad minutes in National League opener

Matt Goodley (red) in action for City of Peterborough v Banbury. Photo: David Lowndes.

City of Peterborough Hockey Club threw away their chances of a first-day victory in the Midland Conference of the National League in a madcap final three minutes.

City were 3-1 up and cruising against league newcomers Banbury at Bretton Gate when man-of-the-match Scott Howard was harshly sin-binned for a gentle push on an opponent.

Banbury promptly pulled a goal back from a short corner and then took advantage of a defensive lapse as captain Joe Finding failed to intercept a hopeful high ball to equalise with a high class, and very cool, finish.

City were so rattled they had to overcome a couple of goalmouth scrambles to keep hold of a point. Goalkeeper Cam Goodey made one excellent reaction save.

Hockey action from City of Peterborough (red) v Banbury. Photo: David Lowndes.

Just to compound Howard’s misery he then visited hospital to be treated for a broken knuckle which will keep him out for six weeks.

The defender had been a rock at the back, making numerous key tackles as well as saving a fierce short corner strike on the line.

The new-look City side had started the game quietly, but the lead in the second quarter with a debut National League goal for George Morris, a summer signing from Spalding.