Eagles boss Lee Duxbury is fast becoming a master at setting out tactics for a ten-man team.

Striker Marcus Edwards has been sent off in Eccleshill’s last two games and other players have seen red earlier in the campaign. And while Duxbury is keen to defend his side’s reputation he is also enjoying the experience he is gaining.

The former Bantams midfielder said: “We have been joking throughout the season about me writing a book on how to play with ten men. I think Wednesday was the sixth or seventh time this season.

“We are not a dirty team either. The Americans are very respectful and like to play their football the right way. They come through their early years playing five-a-side so they are not rough. They don’t try to kick people off the park.”

The Eagles beat Brighouse in the West Riding County Cup to book a semi-final against Guiseley in midweek. They were 2-1 up when Edwards got his marching orders but they increased their lead in stoppage time with ten men.

Duxbury added: “To play against a higher team in terms of league football and win as we did was a fantastic effort and showed character.

“Marcus is not a dirty player but people target him.

“If you’re a top scorer in your division opposition players and managers are going to get to know you. If they see something and they feel they can wind you up to get a reaction out of you then they will do it, that’s football.

“Marcus is one of the best players in our league but he is hot-headed and he has to learn to channel his determination.”