East Cowes Vics’ winless Wessex Premier League run stretched to 9 matches after a narrow defeat at Hamble ended with goalkeeper George Bridi sent off.
The Island side fought back from a goal down through Josh Neale but conceded again in first-half stoppage time before Bridi’s dismissal late in the game.
Vics survived an early scare in the 21st minute when Yeomans struck the woodwork following a defensive mix-up in the penalty area. Liam Newbold was then booked for a challenge on Beqiri, with Hamble appealing for a red card.
The Monks took the lead in the 33rd minute when Davies picked out Beqiri, whose chipped effort bounced over the advancing Bridi and into the net (1–0).
Vics hit back in the 39th minute when Josh Neale raced onto a through ball and poked his 10th goal of the season past Hamble goalkeeper Doe (1–1).
However, Hamble regained the advantage in first-half stoppage time when Bridi spilled Mazi’s shot, allowing Yeomans to convert the rebound (2–1).
Half Time: Hamble Club 2–1 East Cowes Vics
The second half produced few reported chances, with Hamble’s Adams curling an effort narrowly wide in the 71st minute as Vics remained within a goal of drawing level.
Vics’ hopes of an equaliser suffered a major blow in the closing stages when George Bridi was shown a straight red card following a challenge on Hamble’s Beqiri. A lengthy stoppage followed as the injured forward received treatment, leaving Vics to play the final 5 minutes with Wheeler in goal.
Full Time: Hamble Club 2–1 East Cowes Vics
East Cowes Vics: G. Bridi, Snow, Yates, Newbold, West, Chapman, W. Bridi, Wheeler, Haward, Neale, Hart. Subs: Mooney (Hart 83′), O’Neil, Weeks (Newbold 65′), Hiorns, Kirby (Yates 78′).
Vics remain 19th in the Wessex Premier League with 11 points from 12 games, just 1 place above the relegation zone. Despite beating local rivals Cowes Sports 2–1 in the Wessex League Cup earlier this month, the East Cowes side have now gone 9 league matches without a win.
