Aaron Moxam worked his socks off in Pontefract’s 5-2 defeat to Retford United
Kamikaze defending cost Pontefract Collieries in the disappointing 5-2 defeat to Retford United at Beechnut Lane.
Pontefract turned out one of their worst first half performances in recent memory and gifted Retford a three-goal half-time lead.
The defeat leaves the Colls without a win in the Toolstation NCEL Premier Division since the end of September.
Even the much-heralded arrivals of Paul Haigh and Grant Darley could not inspire them to victory.
Pontefract’s defence was weak and it was clear from the moment Retford’s Bradley Johnston was given a ridiculous amount of space to shoot for the bottom corner that it would be a long night for the home side.
The lead was soon doubled. Johnston’s strike was pushed onto the bar and Pontefract’s defence stood and watched as Jason Bradley reacted the quickest to score.
Adam Lee scored on the stroke of half-time. His free kick took a slight deflection and goalkeeper Richard Watson remained stationary as the ball dropped into the net at the left-hand side of him.
The second half did not get any better for Pontefract as their defence once again stood like statues – allowing Brad Kerr to nestle the ball in the top corner.
Johnston waltzed through for the fifth and luckily Retford eased off from Pontefract’s perspective – although popular midfielder Mark Wilson, who was making his 938th appearance, did have a goal ruled out.
Pontefract supporters did have something to cheer about in the last ten minutes. Haigh, back for a second spell with Ponte, sneaked the ball into the bottom corner.
Aaron Moxam, who worked his socks off all night despite a lack of support, deservedly got on the score-sheet in the final minute after rounding Retford goalkeeper James Davies.
Pontefract Collieries: Watson, Rouse, Corbett, Danby (captain) (Heeley 70), Forgione, Lindley, Catton, Haigh, Radford (Mawson 74), Moxam, Darley (Lumb 80). Sub unused: Whitehouse.
Retford United: Davies, Carter, Finnegan, Sellars, Hanson, Lycett, Waters, Johnston, Kerr, Lee, Bradley. Subs: Stuart, Hardman, Wilson.
Referee: Adam Smith
Ref Rating: 7/10
Attendance: 108
Man of the match: Jason Bradley (Retford United)
Read the latest views of Pontefract Collieries manager Nick Handley on Friday.