Highcliffe were slow out of the blocks, and fell behind early to a well-executed lob from close range. Fortunately, this seemed to energise Highcliffe, as they soon responded with a ‘Josh Kerney Special’ free kick beating the goalkeeper for power. 1-1. The boys then began to control the game, dominating possession and opening up gaps in the Winton midfield to apply constant pressure. Central midfielders Ethan and Charlie started to run the game, working hard to distribute passes to teammates and support the defence effectively. It didn’t take long for Highcliffe to convert this pressure into a lead, an excellent Theo cross steered in to the top corner by the head of Callum. A 2-1 advantage at half time!
Although, for the second time in the match Highcliffe started a half under heavy pressure from Winton, who subsequently scored from close range again to take the match level at 2-2. A tense second half then played out, with chances at either end being squandered as the game headed towards extra time. Callum hit the post from a tight angle, and goalkeeper Dan pulled off a crucial fingertip save from a one-on-one effort to keep the game all square. However, Dan could do nothing about a 25-yard wonder strike nestling into the bottom right hand corner of his goal, which looked to have put the tie to bed with only five minutes remaining. 3-2 to Winton. However, Highcliffe were not going down without a fight, and soon won a long-range free kick that Josh was once again stood over. With it being out of shooting range, Josh flighted the ball in to a crowded box and Ethan produced a magnificent improvised back-header to beat the Winton goalkeeper and once more draw the game level. 3-3 with two minutes to go. In an attempt to steal a late winner, Highcliffe sent super-sub Barney onto the field of play. In the last minute of the game, Callum chased a long ball behind the defence to find himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper. Callum managed to round the goalkeeper, but ran out of space and found himself at too tight of an angle. Barney readied himself in the centre of the box. Callum made the pass, and Barney tucked the ball in the top corner to clinch cup glory! The referee blew the full-time whistle soon after Winton had restarted play, marking the completion of an unbelievable comeback win. Highcliffe are Town Cup champions!
A huge congratulations to the Year 7 Football team. We are so proud of your determination to not give up, and your ability to turn the game around when it looked to be all over. We now turn our attentions to the county cup after Christmas, as the boys chase the prospect of an unprecedented cup-double!
Well done boys,
A very proud Mr Ginger, Mr Hallam and Mr Jobbins.
Owned by: HGR | Last Published: 23/11/2018 11:30:00 | Next Update: N/A
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