TRAFFORD conceded four goals in the final 20 minutes to suffer a devastating 4-3 defeat at Tadcaster Albion that severely dented their hopes of securing a promotion play-off place.

Josh Greening almost put the hosts ahead after just four minutes but chipped wide from the edge of the area and in the ninth minute Trafford took the lead when Ash Woods crossed for Andy Keogh to turn neatly and fire into the bottom corner.

Craig Lindfield almost made it two with a fine volley that flew inches wide but defences were on top for the remainder of the half and Trafford went into the interval with a single goal lead.

Tom Baker’s side dominated the opening stages of the second period with some superbly composed possession football and they doubled their lead in the 50th minute when Albion right-back Jordan Armstrong mistimed a header from a Kingsley Williams cross and Lindfield blasted home from six yards.

Lindfield then limped off to be replaced by Aaron Burns and Ash Woods made way for Ally Brown and the changes appeared to upset the rhythm of the visitors.

Albion substitute Carl Stewart pulled a goal back in the 71st minute when he reacted first to a loose ball and a minute later a corner was headed home by Greg Anderson to make it 2-2.

With Albion on top, Jonathan Greening fired over from 15 yards, but Stewart struck again when he outpaced the Trafford defence and slotted past Smith.

The visitors looked down and out but five minutes from time substitute Mark Derbyshire collected the ball 25 yards from goal, cut inside and rifled a magnificent drive into the top corner.

After being put under intense pressure for so long, Trafford would have been happy with a point but it was not to be, as Greening capitalised on some woeful defending to net a last-minute winner from 12 yards. It was tough on Trafford, who felt hard done by in conceding two penalties against Ramsbottom United in Saturday’s 2-2 draw.

The Whites are third in the Evo-Stik League Division One North. Baker’s side will hope to get back to winning ways on Saturday when they travel to Ramsbottom United for the reverse fixture.

l Trafford Football Club is holding a Sportsmen’s Evening at Davyhulme Park Golf Club on June 9.

The guest speaker is former Nottingham Forest, Leeds United, Everton and England International Duncan McKenzie with comedian Dusty Young.

For more details contact Dave Law on 07772 287086.