We’re on the march to Wembley: Tadcaster celebrate George Bissett’s goal which put them 3-0 up at AFC Mansfield. Photo: Ian Parker
Tadcaster Albion comfortably marched into the FA Vase quarter-finals for the first time in their history with a 3-0 win at AFC Mansfield.
Josh Barrett set Tadcaster on their way and Mansfield were the orchestrators of their own downfall as Ryan Williams and even their cheerleader manager Rudy Funk were sent off.
Over 300 fans travelled from Tadcaster to watch their team and they weren’t left disappointed.
Toolstation NCEL Division One promotion-chasers Mansfield are well-backed and the signing of Jimmy Ghaichem from Scarborough earlier in the week showed their financial clout.
It was expected to be a close game considering both sides’ recent records, but Premier Division leaders Tadcaster hit the home side on the break and never looked back.
Barrett slid the opener home from ten yards out and the heat of the big occasion soon got too much for Mansfield.
Josh Barrett puts Tadcaster in front against Mansfield. Photo: Ian Parker
Former Scarborough Athletic boss Rudy Funk argues with referee Antony Tankard. Photo: Ian Parker
And Mansfield’s miserable day was completed as Funk was sent on the long walk of shame to the changing rooms. Photo: Ian Parker
Experienced winger Williams was dismissed for kicking out at Calum Ward and Funk followed him on the walk of shame after haranguing referee Antony Tankard.
Leading goal-scorer Josh Greening, on his return from injury, doubled the lead during first half injury-time and George Bissett wrapped up the win straight after the break.
Tadcaster had to hold on at the end after finishing up with nine men as Paddy Miller was sent off for a trip spotted by the assistant referee and captain Nick Thompson was forced off injured.
But that didn’t take the shine off Tadcaster’s day.
Tadcaster Albion manager Paul Marshall:
“It was very nerve-wracking at the start, but I thought we were very professional when it got a bit cagey when Paddy got sent off.
“We were comfortable at 3-0 and I’m just chuffed to bits for everyone at the football club for getting to the last eight for the first time in the club’s history.”
Tadcaster Albion: Morgan, Bissett, Miller, Ormsby, Ingram, Milne, Barrett, Dhesi, Ward, Thompson, Greening. Subs: Patterson, Lawrie, Brown, Sparkes, Clarkson
Referee: Antony Tankard
Attendance: 604