Andy Woodman hails Bromley spirit after win over Accrington

Andy Woodman praised the spirit of his Bromley side as they overcame a dogged 10-man Accrington to stretch their lead at the top of League Two to four points.

A Michael Cheek brace of penalties in either half sandwiched Dave Abimbola’s equaliser.

Bromley manager Woodman said “That’s a really important victory for us today and one which ensures we continue to take care of our business. I thought we should have had a few more goals in the first half but half time gave me a chance to sort out a few things

He added “Second half I felt we controlled the game and got the result. Accrington Stanley are a really good side and made us work for it but I always felt we had an element of control over the game.

“Michael Cheek was critical when we needed him to be. We aren’t really focused on the other promotion sides in the league, we are focusing on what we need to do and as long as we do that we will be successful”

Bromley set about their task with intent and they were aided when Donald Love received his marching orders after 15 minutes for stamping on Michael Cheek.

Cheek slammed home a penalty to open the scoring after Devon Matthews was adjudged to have handled a cross.

The lead did not last long however, Dave Abimbola heading home a long throw to ensure the two sides went in level.

Bromley retook the lead seven minutes after the restart, Cheek slamming home another spot kick after Idris Odutayo had been fouled.

Accrington manager John Doolan said: “I thought my side was brilliant but the sending off put us on the back foot and it meant we were always up against it. The decision for the first penalty was a foul and I will be speaking to whoever I have to speak to understand why that was given.

“That penalty decision left us on a further back foot but in spite of that, my lads still gave me everything. They had so much heart and desire and deserved to get something out of the game for what they gave me.

“Bromley is a tough place to come and they showed why today but we answered everything they threw at us today with 10 men. I am so proud in spite of the defeat.”