Mitchell released after seeing red in FA Cup

Action from Dunstable Town's 2-0 defeat to Maidstone United

Ten-man Dunstable Town battled bravely but went of out the FA Cup with a 2-0 defeat at Maidstone United Saturday.

The turning point was a red card for striker Geoff Mitchell 10 minutes into the second period due to an off the ball incident, with the former Alloa Athletic forward now being released by the club.

Up to that time Dunstable had played well, even though the home side had most of the possession, with the back four superb as it looked like they could force a replay.

With 1,583 in the ground creating a fine atmosphere, Dunstable had winger Victor Osobu cup-tied while Gary Wharton and Mitchell started with David Keenleyside moving to full back.

Blues threatened with a snapshot from Danny Talbot, while Mitchell saw his weak shot fail to test the keeper.

Maidstone upped the pressure as Adam Birchall’s effort was well stopped by Paul Bastock, while he rushed from goal to clear the danger.

Adam Watkins fired in an attempt well held by Lee Worgan, although the Stones remained on the front foot as Bastock denied Birchall.

Jemale McKenzie-Lowe then sent a dipping effort wide while Mitchell tested Worgan as the visitors reflected on a fine goalless first half.

However, after the break, Mitchell saw red on 55 minutes and Maidstone started to make the extra man count, as they were ahead with 20 minutes to go as Alex Osborn cut in to shoot past Bastock.

Moments later it was 2-0 as Jay May headed home, with the tie now seemingly up for the Blues.

To their credit, Dunstable never gave up and James Kaloczi’s saw his attempt blocked, while both Lee Roache and McKenzie-Lowe tried their luck late on, but it wasn’t to be.

Dunstable are back in action on Tuesday night when they host Cambridge City in the Red Insure Cup.

Maidstone United: Lee Worgan, Callum Driver, Tom Mills, Jamie Coyle, Steve Watt, Jack Paxman, Max Bodkin (Alex Fisher 80), Joe Healey, Jay May, Adam Birchall (Archie Wrigglesworth 90), Alex Osborn.

Subs not used: Manny Parry, James Rogers, Ben Bridle-Card.

Dunstable Town: Paul Bastock, David Keenleyside (Zac Reynolds, 75), Luke Pennell, Danny Talbot, James Kaloczi, Adam Pepera, Adam Watkins, Gary Wharton (Lorenzo Ferrari 84), Geoff Mitchell, Steven Gregory (Lee Roache 56), Jemale McKenzie-Lowe.

Subs not used: Matt Nolan, Bart Pedrycz.