Monday, January 24, 2000

SAM Bowen scored a hat-trick as Worcester City pulled off a stunning second-half comeback to beat Blakenall 4-2 in the Dr Martens Cup third round last night.

Two goals down at the interval, the out-of-favour striker spearheaded City's recovery as they moved into the last eight.

Manager John Barton was delighted for Bowen, making only his second start since October after being sidelined by an ankle injury.

"We have seen something from him in the second-half, some positive, controlled aggression in his game that was to the benefit of the side. He has turned it round for us."

It was all the more remarkable as City were woeful in the first-half. They barely threatened and the Western Division visitors, who showed a lot more appetite for the battle, deservedly led 2-0.

Scott Colcombe beat goalkeeper Danny Watson to a left-wing cross to head home in the 34th minute, and seven minutes later Paul Hunter slid home the second from close range.

To make matters worse, left-back Kevin Willetts had to go off with a knee injury early on, allowing reserve defender Steve Frost to make an assured first-team debut.

But Barton's half-time rocket did the trick, as within three minutes of the restart City were level.

On 47 minutes Bowen headed home Nathan Jukes' left-wing free-kick, and straight from the kick-off City surged forward again and Bowen won a penalty under Leon Jackson's challenge. Mark Owen scored his 22nd goal of the season from the spot.

Bowen then gave City the lead on 56 minutes with a powerful header from John Deakin's right-wing corner.

Victory was secured eight minutes from time when Jukes put in a superb cross from the right and Bowen's header squeezed over the line.

Worcester: Watson 6, Sandeman 6, Willetts 5 (Frost 23, 7), Heeley 7, Weir 8, Carty 8, Deakin 6, Jukes 7, Owen 7, Lutz 8, Bowen 9 (Purdie 83). Sub not used: Upton.

Star man: Sam Bowen.

Attendance: 355.