NEW BOY Frank Sinclair netted an injury time winner at the weekend as a thrilling 4-3 victory over Altrincham ended Colwyn Bay’s run of four straight defeats.
The Seagulls got back on track with a superb win over the Blue Square North high-flyers which also saw Rob Hopley back among the goals, netting either side of Gareth Evans’ strike.
Bay boss Jon Newby said he was delighted to see his side back amongst the goals after just one net-buster in the last four, and praised former Chelsea stopper Sinclair for a debut to remember.
“They’ve only conceded 11 goals in 11 games at home, but I knew that if we attacked like we know we can then we could pick up a result,” Newby said.
“I can’t say I signed Frank for his goals! He’s got great experience, and having played at the level he has knows all about positioning and reading the game.
“He’ll bring some great experience and help some of the younger lads - I think he’s just disappointed he didn’t negotiate a goal bonus.”
Sinclair, 40, made 169 appearances for Premier League giants Chelsea between 1990 and 1998 before moving on to successful stints at Leicester City, Burnley and Huddersfield Town. He signed for the Seagulls last week after a spell at Isthmian Premier League side Hendon.
Lining up with a more adventurous 4-4-2 formation, the attacking outlook immediately paid off when Rob Hopley netted on 18 minutes after Lee Davey’s effort was saved.
The Robins struck back three minutes later through Jack Redshaw, but Gareth Evans restored the Bay’s lead, only for Altrincham to draw level again through top scorer Damien Reeves just before the half hour mark to cap an incredible 11 minute spell. Reeves added a second to put the hosts ahead, but Hopley’s second of the game from a goalmouth scramble again restored parity.
Sinclair was the hero in the 91st minute, smashing home after keeper Stuart Coburn failed to handle Mike Lea’s corner.