Cheltenham Town were humbled by fellow promoted side Cambridge United as they fell to a 5-0 defeat at the Jonny Rocks Stadium.
A hat-trick from Joe Ironside, a Mattie Pollock own goal and a goal from ex-Town loanee Sam Smith made for a miserable night for the Robins fans.
Dan Crowley had a free-kick that hit the side netting, and Alfie May thundered a shot onto the crossbar, but that was as close as the home side came to registering on the scoresheet.
It’s Cheltenham’s worst defeat since going down 6-1 to Coventry City in 2018 and following their 4-3 defeat against Wimbledon in the FA Cup, they have now conceded nine goals in their last two games.
Following an even start to the game, the deadlock was broken when Lewis Freestone misjudged a ball over the top, and Smith was able to capitalise on the gifted opportunity, slotting home one-on-one against Scott Flinders.
The Robins started the second half with a succession of opportunities to get the ball into the box but failed to create anything concrete.
They were punished for their lack of attacking guile when George Williams’ cross was inadvertently bundled home by Pollock.
The home side nearly got themselves back into the game when May’s shot from the right-hand side of the box cannoned off the top of the crossbar and out of play.
Smith then further caused headaches for his previous employers on his return to Gloucestershire after his cross was met by Ironside who was able to convert from close range.
Ironside went on to complete his hat-trick, first nodding home Williams’ free-kick, before being set up by a backheel from James Brophy to put the seal on a dismal night for Michael Duff’s side.
Line-ups
Cheltenham Town: Flinders, Long (C), Pollock, Freestone (Vassell, 64’), Blair, Sercombe, Wright (Joseph, 64’), Chapman (Raglan, 77’), Hussey, Crowley, May.
Unused: Evans, Williams, Horton, Barkers
Cambridge United: Mitov, Williams, Okedina, Iredale, Dunk, Weir (Lankester, 82’), Digby (C), Tracey (Brophy, 46’), May, Smith (Knibbs, 78’), Ironside.
Unused: McKenzie-Lyle, Masterson, Worman
Next up…
The Robins will be looking to avoid losing a three matches in seven days when they host Lincoln City on Saturday, December 11 (3pm kick off).
