FC Isle of Man ended their 2025/26 league campaign with a spirited display, but fell to a 4-2 defeat against promotion-chasing Padiham.
The Ravens made a dream start when Ste Whitley’s corner was met by Dean Pinnington, who headed home to give the visitors an 11th-minute lead.
Padiham, however, responded well. Fenton Davies levelled the scores before Joel Brownhill converted a penalty to send the home side into the break 2-1 ahead.
Padiham extended their lead early in the second half through Lewis Ayres.
The game then took a dramatic turn when home player Isaac Smith was shown a straight red card for a reckless tackle on Danny Gerrard.
FC Isle of Man looked to take advantage, and Ste Whitley pulled a goal back with a poachers’ goal at the back post to make it 3-2, giving the travelling support renewed hope.
However, Padiham quickly restored their two-goal cushion as Davies netted his second of the afternoon.
The Ravens pushed for another reply but could not find a way through as the home side held on for a crucial win ahead of their play-off campaign.