THE ABBEY ANGLE By DOMINIC GLENNON Cambridge United battled fiercely, but a lack of finishing power was once again their undoing as they went down 1-0 to Conference leaders Accrington Stanley. Manager Rob Newman once again chose to leave top scorer Fola

THE ABBEY ANGLE

By DOMINIC GLENNON

Cambridge United battled fiercely, but a lack of finishing power was once again their undoing as they went down 1-0 to Conference leaders Accrington Stanley.

Manager Rob Newman once again chose to leave top scorer Fola Onibuje on the bench, preferring to use Craig Westcarr as a lone stirker in a 4-5-1 formation, a tactical change which appeared to be successful as United dominated the first half, forcing eight corners and creating several chances without actually scoring that vital goal.

They could not maintain the pressure in the second half, however, and, although keeper Scott Howie saved a penalty in the 69th minute, Stanley finally broke the deadlock nine minutes later, Ian Craney scoring the goal that would prove decisive.

Earlier in the week, boss Rob Newman had admitted that he had tried to sign Anthony Elding in the transfer window, but the former Stevenage striker went to Kettering for a reported £40,000 fee.

Meanwhile, rumours are growing that a merger of some sort will take place between Cambridge United and Cambridge City.

The latter's financial situation looks increasingly precarious, and chairman Arthur Eastham has refused to rule out a rumoured proposal which would see the club become an academy team playing in the Ridgeons League.

Former United striker Dave Kitson, currently flying high with Reading in the Championship, added his voice to the merger debate this week, saying: "If people in Cambridge area want to continue watching football then a merger might be the only solution."

The club are due to hold a fans' forum next Wednesday, although any joining of forces is likely to be met with fury from the fiercely loyal band of City fans.