It was another crushing defeat as Paddock have now suffered back to back losses for the first time this season, in arguably the two biggest games of the season. Howson’s men were knocked out of the Rhodes Cup after suffering a 2-0 defeat to arch-rivals De La Salle Reds, which ensures that Paddock will end the season trophyless. It was also the third time De La Salle had beaten Stretford Paddock this season, with this particular loss being bound to hurt the most.

There was no love lost between the two sides in a game filled with hostility which for the most part overshadowed the actual quality of the game. Howson reiterated all week the need to keep things tight early as Paddock have picked up the habit of starting slow and giving themselves a mountain to climb, but once again, Paddock found themselves 2-0 in the first 11mins, and it was all but game over. The first goal was a goalmouth scramble, but absolutely nothing could have been done about the second; a 30-yard wonder strike that nestled into the top corner and sucked the life out of the visitors. It was a scrappy affair after with Paddock struggling to create chances for the majority of the game with the only lease of life coming from a dubious offside call against Kieron Molloy that prevented him from going in on goal and possible beginning a potential fightback for Paddock. Where highlights then showed that Molloy was at least two yards onside and was unlucky to see the linesman’s flag.

This result all but put an end to the season as Paddock also debuted their highly touted green and gold kit, which proved to be no good omen as the lads bowed out in disappointing fashion—hopefully bringing about a chip on the shoulder for Howson and his men as they go for glory once again next season.