Square Rangers 3 Barton
Rovers A 2
Saturday 26th April
South Beds Saturday League
U13 Cup Final
Square Rangers completed a fantastic treble, adding the SBSL Cup
to the League and SBSL League Cup, thanks to this hard fought victory
against Barton Rovers A.
Leighton United hosted this Cup final, providing excellent facilities
and a fine pitch to grace this finale to the SBSL 2007/2008 season.
It was Square Rangers that settled quickest and took full advantage
of Barton’s very edgy start with a very early goal scored
by Joe who combined well with Johnny to force home a close rebound.
The same two linked up again to put Rangers 2-0 up this time Johnny
excellently volleying home bicycle kick style Joe’s cross
from the by-line. Rangers clearly full of confidence and definitely
on top forced home their advantage once again as Johnny notched
his second of the game with a great finish over the keeper’s
head to put Rangers 3-0 up with only 20 minutes played. Barton Rovers
A from there on began to get back into the game and for the remainder
of the half there was little between the two teams. Jack, Spencer
and Nathan relished the congested battle in the middle of midfield
and provided good service to Johnny, and Jake and Joe in the wide
areas. Louis, Josh, William and Ryan each showed good battling qualities
in defence to stifle the attacking threats of a rejuvenated Barton
Rovers. However just before half-time Barton were given hope of
a comeback when they kept possession well into our half to set up
a long range strike that beat Jamie into the bottom corner of the
net. Both sets of players were happy to get water and rest on this
very warm day with Rangers 3-1 up at half-time.
Clearly the goal just before half-time had given Barton the belief
that all was still to play for and Rangers knew that cool and calm
heads were needed to remain focused. A disputed free-kick was awarded
to Barton wide on the right and from the resultant kick a fine header
from the back post brought Barton very much back into the game at
3-2 with still over 25 minutes remaining. What followed was a strong
display of Square Rangers’ resolve and spirit to hold on to
the lead withstanding strong pressure from Barton obviously lifted
by the early goal. Jamie produced good safe handling and a triple
save to thwart the Barton attackers, whilst at the other end Peter’s
impressive strike brought a top save from the Barton keeper. Peter
was then involved in the best move of the game involving Joe and
then Jack to set up Johnny whose close range strike went just wide
of the post. As the game entered its final stages Barton pushed
extra players forward but strong rearguard action from Josh and
then Spencer who chased down the onrushing striker just enough for
him to be put off with his final shot. As the final whistle sounded
the exhausted Square Rangers players celebrated a hard fought victory
and a fantastic treble achievement.
Players of the match:
Johnny Clarke (Square
Rangers)
Michael Draycott (Barton Rovers A)
Summary:
Both teams should be
congratulated by their performance in this Cup final which has brought
the 2007/2008 SBSL season to a close. The spirit and sportsmanship
from both sets of players, the encouragement from both sets of supporters,
the referee’s controlled handling of the game and the hospitality
of Leighton United made this a fitting climax. Barton Rovers A were
a credit to their manager and club for the dignity they showed in
defeat in both Cup finals, character building experience!
Season 2007/2008
For Square Rangers their season long experience will be one they
will not forget in a long, long time. The players, through their
football at training and matches this season have built up a strong
friendship and togetherness which without question has been a key
factor in their success. They have consistently looked and performed
as a “team” this season, sometimes outplaying teams
with flair and technique, whilst other times drawing on reserves
of spirit and resolve. Their behaviour and attitude has been a credit
to the Square Methodist Church to whom they represent and it has
been a privilege to coach such a group of players this year.
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