Nine-man Comrades thumped by Biggleswade United

Berko made four changes to the starting XI, replacing three of the back four and giving a debut to Abass Jah, and the side was further disrupted by two defenders going off injured in the first half.

Nick Elliott gave the visitors the lead in the seventh minute with a shot that went through Carl Taker’s hands, and by the 17th minute Dan Weeks had injured his ankle in a tackle and Dale Sears pulled a hamstring.

The two defenders were replaced by forwards Adiel Mannion and Josh Chamberlain as the side was reshuffled, but there were few chances in the remainder of the first half.

Seven minutes into the second half Tom Cookman added a second goal for United, deflecting another shot past Tasker despite looking to be in an offside position.

Fine strikes from Charlie Joy and Matt Elliott made it 4-0 with 20 minutes left as United’s passing was superior to the home team’s.

Two bad tackles earned Chamberlain two yellow cards and an early shower, before Mannion got a straight red for retaliation soon afterwards.

Berko: Tasker, Jah, Weeks (Mannion), Baldry, Sears (Chamberlain), Rodrigoe, Jowle (Carbery), Farrelly, Campana, Mead, Carter. Subs not used: Nash-Barker and Frederick.

Berko entertain Tring Athletic on Saturday and on Easter Monday they go to Welwyn Garden City. Steve Hawes may be fit to return.

Berko’s reserve game with North Greenford United has been postponed due to a cup tie.