Wycombe Saints Colts, playing their first tournament of the season fought their way out of a tough division to win the Chinnor Youth U12 colts tournament yesterday.

Grouped with Chinnor, Risborough, Crendon and Benson United. Saints started with a solid 1-0 win over Chinnor, followed by 2 draws, 1-1 vs Benson and 0-0 with Risborough. A 1-0 win over Crendon in the last match was enough to see Saints qualify in second place as Risborough topped the group.

The quarter final saw Saints take on Thame, who had no answer to 2 well worked goals from Ethan and Harry.

Then came the semi and a rematch with Risborough. Once again, in a very competitive match, the teams were inseparable after normal time and extra time. Thanks in no small part to 'keeper' Aiden who pulled of several impressive saves including a 'miracle' dive at full length low to his right late in the second half. The game ended with Saints on the attack but unable to find a way through. Semi final penalties then, for the second year in a row.

Once again Aiden was the hero, saving 2 of the 4 spot kicks he faced while skipper Benjamin slayed the ghost of last year by burying the winning penalty. Saints were in the final

THE FINAL

While our semi was being played out, Benson United, who had the better of us in the drawn group game before Joao snatched a late equaliser, had made light work of their quarter and semi finals and were watching on with interest. However it was Saints that rose to the occasion and played the better football in a well contested final, played in a great spirit by both teams.

Halfway through the first half, a quick throw in from the left found Ethan in space, he turned and squared the ball to an unmarked Harry who beat one defender and struck the ball low and hard under the goalie from the edge of the area for his third goal of the tournament. 1-0 Saints at half time.

Early in the second half Charlie's throw in from the left was cleared back to him by the Benson defender. Was it a cross? Was it a shot? We will never know, but once it left his right foot, the Benson keeper could only watch as the ball sailed over his head into the far corner for a deserved 2-0 lead.

Benson tried to get back into the game but found themselves thwarted by the tireless and classy pair of Joao and Ethan. When they did get past them, Benjamin and Charlie backed up by always impressive Aiden restricted them to few efforts. Tyrone entered the game and used his pace and determination to keep the pressure on the Benson defence and Dan (showing bravery by playing through illness but still taking part in every match) came on to sure up Saints defence as both teams tired.

So Saints Colts earned their first trophy, but coach Martin suggested that "If they play like this it wont be the last". He added "Today was about 8 of the squad of 15, who showed what we are capable of by playing to the best of their ability. I'm very proud of them and this really sets a standard, but we have another tournament coming up and lots of competition for places among the boys".

The coach and players also thank our supporters for the positive and vocal support they gave throughout the day. and Chinnor FC and all our opponents for a well organised and well played tournament.