Workington Reds boss Mark Fell was full of praise for his side’s gallant performance at Macclesfield despite conceding a stoppage time decider in a 3-2 defeat.
“We have come up against the best side in our league by a country mile and have just fallen short. They were relentless and just overrun us in the end,” he said after losing to Robbie Savage’s NPL champions.
Reds formed a guard of honour as Macclesfield took to the field and then tried their best to spoil the promotion party.
And when they scored twice within eighty-eight seconds midway through the first half, a shock result looked a possibility.
David Symington put Reds in front via a free kick from the edge of the area in the 27th minute, a lead doubled soon after by Jamie Allen who punished some hesitancy in the Macc defence.
It was the first time Macclesfield had conceded twice in a game for four months but they justified their tag as champions by restoring parity by half time.
Laurent Mendy reduced the arrears in the 32nd minute after two earlier attempts had struck Jack Barrett’s crossbar.
And, after a Luke Duffy thunderbolt had also rebounded off the goal frame, the hosts levelled matters when Danny Elliott forced home the equaliser in first half stoppage time.
Macclesfield were camped in Workington’s half for long periods throughout the second period and a string of fine saves from Barrett and some brave defending kept Reds in the game.
But, two minutes into the six of additional time, Duffy set up the outstanding John Rooney for Macclesfield’s late, late winner, condemning Reds to a gut-wrenching defeat.
Even then, they could have salvaged a point but Allen couldn’t get enough elevation on the ball and Max Dearnley comfortably saved the weak shot.
The champions are now close to achieving 100 points and a century of league goals whilst Reds are one of five clubs still fighting to avoid the fourth and final relegation berth.
They are back on the road next week with a trip to Leek Town.
