Windscale’s ambitions of a top six finish were dented by a lacklustre performance against Annfield Plain at the Falcon Complex.
The early signs were good as the hosts were dominant in possession, debutante Joe Atkinson making his presence felt with two strong challenges to set Jack Wordsworth and Reece Fretwell on the attack, the final ball to Leo Brennan just too long.
The pattern of play continued for the major part of the first period, Brennan, Wordsworth, Fretwell, Matty Pierce, Lewis Jolly and Man of the Match, Atkinson all prominent with forays into the visitor’s penalty area.
The hosts defence being resolute, Atkinson, Stevie Walker, Ray Sempill and Ross Leeson dealing capably with the persistent long ball strategy from Annfield Plain.
Plain were denied a goal in the 30th minute when Atoms keeper Fin Stephenson produced a great save from a Connor Gales strike after Windscale where caught dilly dallying on the edge of their box.
The game remained scoreless at the break, the Atoms unable to register a score beyond Plain keeper Ian Costello.
Both teams commenced the second period with the same approach as in the first 45 minutes, Plains direct approach countering the Atoms build up from midfield strategy.
It was Annfield that benefitted, taking the lead in the 52nd minute.
A loose square pass in the Atoms half was picked up by Annfield Plains Ryan Allan and played wide, the resultant low driven cross was deposited beyond Stephenson into the back of the Windscale net.
With over 35 minutes of play left there were opportunities for the Atoms to redress the balance, Brennan shooting narrowly wide, Lewis Selkirk and Lewis Jolly both unable to beat Costello, the referees final whistle putting an end to any Windscale comeback.
The Atoms have a free week next Saturday, their final home game of the season on 29 March, sees Easington Lane visiting the Falcon with a 2.30pm kick-off.
