East Berkshire Youth League U15’s Cup Semi-Final
Shiplake F.C. v N.P.L. Youth F.C 28/02/15
After nine unsuccessful years of trying to get passed the 1st round of the cup, yesterday we finally found ourselves in the semi – final.
We were up against a Shiplake side that haven’t lost a game since November.
The omens weren’t good, as Alex Ashley’s quality boots fell apart in the warm up, and Luke Jones had to start on the bench, following an injury picked up at school.
After 20 quite even minutes, on an unusually square pitch, the game came to life as Ciaran McGann’s powerful long range shot, took a slight deflection, taking it past the outstretched hand of a diving keeper, putting us 1-0 up.
Good runs from Luke Packwood, down the left and tireless work from the midfield players, gave us a deserved 1-0 lead at half time.
A few changes to the line up in the 2nd half, saw Arvin and Jacques come on. Shiplake started the 2nd half in a positive manner, saw them attacking hard down are right flank, but Henry and the back four stood firm. A couple of free kicks from Shiplake, forcing Lewis to turn one over the bar gave us a reminder that this wasn’t going to be an easy ride.
Shiplake gave away a free kick between the halfway line and the 18 yard box. Jack Smith put the ball down and struck the ball goalwards, it has to be said, it wasn’t the best kick he’s ever taken, and maybe that’s why the keeper didn’t concentrate properly and fumbled the ball into his own net, 2-0.
10 minutes later we were given another free kick about the same distance away, but more central. This was the best free kick Jack has ever taken, screaming into the top corner giving the poor keeper no chance, 3-0.
There was still time for Kiran Farebrother to get our 4th with his head !!!!! 4-0.
We were rampant, still trying for one more goal, and it looked like we were going to get it, as Arvin dribbled into the box but somehow he just managed to put it inches wide.
Final whistle 4-0, job done, not the best football we have played this season, but got the job done.
Well done to all the boys, you all gave Phil and I everything we asked for, roll on the 25th April.