In the semi-final of the league cup the Ambers from the Premier Division were up against Ryan FC “A” team, current leaders of the Super Division.
The first match was fast and furious from the start and the Ambers found themselves under early pressure from Ryan FC and were 1-0 down within the first 5 minutes. The Ambers totally committed and working hard to get possession were awarded a penalty when Ryan FC handled in the box. Dan coolly converted from the spot to make it 1-1. The Ambers then took the lead after some good work from Dan, Sonny and then Timmy, who finished with a well driven shot on goal, 2-1 to Ambers. Ryan FC came back strong and equalised just before half time making the score 2-2.
In the second half the Ambers were resilient in defence with Louie C having a great match. The match was end to end with both teams unlucky not to have scored. It was Ryan though who got their noses in front after a long range shot bounced high up over Ben P in goal and were fortunate to be 3-2 ahead. The Ambers continued to press for an equaliser, but Ryan FC managed to hold on and so finished 3-2.
In the second match the Ambers needed to score early and did with a low driven corner from Louie T. With both teams creating chances at either end, it was a surprise that it only finished 1-0 to the Ambers at half time.
The second half started at a furious pace, Ryan FC coming close hitting the woodwork three times, the Ambers hitting on the break had near misses too. Halfway into the second half was a crazy 10 minutes with first Ambers taking a 2-0 lead with a goal from Josh. Minutes later Ryan FC pulled one back making the match score 2-1 and aggregate score 4-4. Then straight from the kick off the Ambers replied with a well taken volley from Casey. That made it 3-1 in the match to the Ambers (5-4 on agg). Again from the kick off Ryan FC scored making it 3-2(5-5 on agg). With five minutes remaining and both teams going for the win, it was Ryan FC who managed to break away and score, levelling the match at 3-3,but were in front 6-5 on aggregate. That is how it finished 6-5 to Ryan.
All the Ambers boys put in an outstanding performance. They were a credit to themselves and to all who turned up to give fantastic support. We the coaches are very proud of the boys! Unlucky though we were, they can hold their heads up high and be proud of how they played. Could not choose a Man of the Match, the whole squad were fantastic!