A dark, damp and misty evening at Watnall Road - the players had to contend with a very a sticky pitch as well, but Clifton played the conditions better and eased into the Senior Cup semi-finals at the expense of their hosts.
Expected a big turn out for this game, but I suppose the weather and TV footie kept some people away - counted a good 70+ in attendance though, so not too bad overall.
Clifton had Alex Haughton, Rob Gill and Levi Ramsey up top, and even when Gill retired early doors through injury, the Clifton strikers were far too good for the rather shaky Linby defence.
The visitors went ahead in the 14th minute. The referee awarded them a dubious free-kick on the corner of the box and when the ball was played into the area, a mis-hit shot from LEVI RAMSEY somehow found it's way past Linby keeper Scott Miles to nestle in the back of the net.
Linby were level on 24, though again there was some controversy surrounding the goal. When Linby skipper Matt Peberday ran at goal with a defender, the Clifton player bundled the ball into his own net with his arm. We thought the goal was going to be given, but the linesman on the far side flagged for the penalty, which was duly awarded and duly converted by MATT MURPHY.
Clifton were back in front on 36 after a poor defensive header gifted the ball to ALEX HAUGHTON who turned well for a big lad and fired past a static Miles. H-T 1-2
Linby did show a bit more get up and go early in the second period, but the game was effectively over after 70 minutes when CRAIG ANDERSON scored the third for the All Whites. Miles did well to block the midfield general's first effort, but Anderson kept his head and rolled home the rebound from an acute angle. F-T 1-3
Clifton join Sutton Town AFC and Rainworth MW in the draw for the semis. Bulwell and Carlton will fight it out for the other semi-final place on Tuesday 19th March at Greenwich Avenue.
Admission £3
Programme include in admission price
H/C 79
