Kingswood v Christchurch

BYFL Cup Final

Match Result: 4 - 2

Goal Scorers: Ollie G, Oliver D

This was one of those that I think the occasion got to the players. We
still had no Max and this would be Ollie G's final game as he has now
been signed by Bournemouth. We started so well; we kicked off, passed
the ball and kept possession and looked very good. Inside the first 5
minutes a goal bound shot from Olly B crashed against the bar - if
only that had gone in it might have all been so different. Despite how
well we played Josh was a constant threat for them. His pace is
frightening and he has an awesome shot. He too had an effort that
clipped the bar and a shot that looked a certain goal but somehow Dec
dived to his right and pushed it over one-handed.

Midway through the first half Kingswood were awarded a free kick which
Josh hit; Tom tried to head it out but unfortunately it glanced off his
head into the goal. And that was that for the first half. It seemed to
knock the stuffing out of us and to be honest we were grateful not to be
further behind at half time.

We are quite used to playing poorly first half and then far better
second but today it just didn't happen. Passing moves broke down; we
struggled to get the ball out wide to Harry and Oliver and the front two
just seemed to get isolated. Again midway through the half they added a
second. To our credit we always show impressive resilience and 5
minutes later Oliver got his first real run, he nutmegged the full back
and hit a cracking shot from the edge of the box; 2 - 1 and we thought
this was it. But two minutes later they scored a third.

With 6 minutes left Ollie G showed real determination in the box and
scored our second. 5 minutes left and we were finally on top again.
Josh missed (for him) a sitter and we thought the luck was finally
turning. Olly B was put through to make it 3 all but he slipped as
he went to hit it. A minute later we were awarded a free kick - up
steps Harry - he always scores these - but he too slipped as he went to
hit it - what had we said about luck changing.

Last minute and they were awarded a free kick and Josh did his business.

We should be encouraged - we played poorly and Kingswood's parents said
it was their best game all season. Josh was the difference; three out
of four of their goals were long range free kicks from him. It almost
makes you wonder why Bournemouth haven't already signed him - but no
sour grapes here. Well done Kingswood - on the day they were by far the
better team - but we will have our day again.

Well done to Ollie G - a short but very distinguished career at
Christchurch. Thanks too to Mannie and Lisa for everything (especially
the cakes) - we will miss all three of you.

And congratulations to Oliver D. Bournemouth would like to take him
on a six week trial and he thoroughly deserves that chance.

Michael