Match Report 2nd March 2002

U17 Cup Semi-final 2nd leg v Basingstoke

6-6 Newbury (Lost 6-8 on aggregate)

This second leg semi-final match was played 5-a-side as Newbury's captain and goalkeeper, Hannah, was injured. Last week's 1st leg had been conceeded due to illness so Newbury started the second leg 2-nil down

For the first half Caz went in goal in a effort to keep the score down. Basingstoke went 1 up within the first few minutes but for the next 15 minutes the game was fought hard and Newbury had several opportunities to score. Emma was driving up field from defence on several occassions. For the last 15 minutes of the first half Newbury tired and, despite some significant saves by Caz, Newbury were 4-nil down at half time. At half time the Newbury players were really showing the signs of not having played for 6 weeks and the previous week's illnesses.

In the second half Chelsea went in goal but within 5 minutes Basingstoke went 5-nil up. However with the wind at their backs and with the advantage of having Caz coming onto the field as a fresh outfielder the game began to change. Newbury began to put significant pressure onto the Basingstoke defence although they were still dangerous on the break. Chelsea made some fine 1 handed saves. Jo was keeping the defence tight and on several occassions Kelly came back from attack to cover when the midfield had been caught up front. Emma was making more driving runs upfield, one of which resulted in an excellent goal by Kelly. Kelly scored with a spectacular volley from a Caz corner.

Newbury equalised at 5-5, then Basingstoke scored to regain the lead. With a few minutes to go Newbury was awarded a penalty for hand ball. Caz converted the penalty to make the final score 6-6.

Players: Caz, Jo, Emma, Chelsea, Kelly

Goalscorers: Kelly (2), Caz (4)