Hammers discipline woes worry boss (From Halesowen News)

Hammers discipline woes worry boss

4:39pm Thursday 20th September 2012 in Football

ADRIAN Mander has laid down the law to Cradley Town’s misbehaving players.

The Hammers have enjoyed a strong start to the season but their discipline is becoming a big problem, with key players being suspended and the club being hit in the pocket.

Last Saturday’s fiery 4-2 FA Vase defeat at rivals Lye Town saw Cradley rack up £270 in fines as Sam Wilkinson was sent off and six other players were booked.

Mander admits the situation cannot continue.

He said: “Some of the bookings have been a bit silly but it is getting out of hand.

“It’s hurting our chances in games and costing the club money too.

“We sat the players down after training on Tuesday night and said this can’t continue.

“I feel we’ve put together a strong side but the discipline side of things will come back and haunt us if we’re not careful.”

Mander felt his side got what they deserved after admitting they “threw in the towel” following Wilkinson’s sending off, which came when they were 2-1 up.

Striker Matt Bailey is suspended for this Saturday’s trip to Shawbury United in West Midlands Premier Division though the manager is hoping to complete moves for Black Country Rangers’ Blake Thompson, Penncroft’s Craig Jones and Halesowen Town defender Richard Huckfield.

Cradley then have another derby on Tuesday when they host Dudley Town.

He said: “New faces should freshen things up a bit.

“I feel the league is wide open this year, it could be anybodys.”

Causeway United enjoyed better success in the Vase as they twice came from a goal down to see off Highgate United 3-2 after extra-time.

Jake Brown put the visitors in front from the spot but Aaron Lloyd grabbed a leveller for United.

Brown restored the advantage early in the second period before Matt Aston squared things at 2-2 with a header eight minutes from time.

However, Stourbridge loanee Adam Ward then struck the winner during a hotly contested extra period, which also saw Highgate’s Sean Ellis sent off from the bench after he raced on to the pitch to join in a 22-man brawl.

Causeway travel to Rocester this Saturday.