Coward Cup QF as Ramsden travelled to CSL golden boys, Priory Sports.

Our referee got moved from our fixture on Friday night meaning the Priory manager (as the home side) decided to officiate the game. We did offer to do half or even the full 90, but we were told they had the authority as home team.

The game kicked off and Ramsden showed attacking intent, knocking the ball around well trying to break a disciplined Priory. However, credit to the home side who had some very good technical players as they started to cause problems in transition. The opening goal came after Ramsden switched off from a throw in, allowing a cross in to the box which was smashed in on the second attempt after the initial header hit the bar. 1-0. Priory would finish the half well, making the visitors work for possession. HT: 1-0.

Ramsden came out the second half a different side, playing at a high intensity that Priory hadn't encounter so far this season. A frustrating morning in front of goal seemed to be on the cards as big chance after big chance went beckoning, until substitute Goater picked the ball up on the edge of the box and rifled one home. 1-1.

20 minutes left to play and the home side were hanging on. Goater on another day could've had a hattrick, but a couple of fine saves from the keeper and genuine bad luck kept the scores level. Since the equaliser, we had began to notice a change in the Priory manager officiating the game and FT was blown 8 minutes early. FT: 1-1.

Extra time ensued and it was continued one way traffic as Ramsden pushed to get the win they deserved. However, a long clearance from the Priory defender found their striker, who was doing his shoe lace around 15 yards behind the Rams defence. The flag went up and nobody thought much of a blatant offside as the player jokingly put it in the net. The referee had other ideas, overruling the decision and stating he thought the player was onside. We've seen some great calls in Sunday league, but this would be our new favourite. The goal stood and the referee then tried to start a fight. Unsavory scenes from a club who had a weird sense on entitlement.

The game finished 4-2 after a mad 10 minutes and Ramsden could've managed it better on another day, but the frustration was clear and understandable. Robbed a place in the next round, but the team can be proud of how they performed on and off the pitch. Referee absentees are a big problem in Sunday league as highlighted today. Ramsden continue their quest elsewhere also with a cup final date to look forward to.