Cup bid falls short after one-sided first half

Faversham Strike Force’s women battled hard but were ultimately outclassed as they were knocked out of the cup by higher-division opponents Eastbourne United AFC.

After a solid start, the Force lost their rhythm and Eastbourne took advantage with two quick goals before seizing total control to lead 5-0 at the interval. Strike Force regrouped at half-time and fought back strongly, but they could not find the breakthrough as the game ended 6-0.

Emma Brown was voted Strike Force’s player-of-the-match for her impressive work-rate.

Under-14 Thunder put in a stellar display at league leaders Dover Rangers to edge through to the East Kent Cup final thanks to a nail-biting 3-2 victory. George Maguire was his side’s hero as he claimed an excellent hat-trick firstly racing clear before slotting home calmly, then producing a sublime lob and rounding off his treble with a late winner after his side had surrendered a two-goal lead.

It was more comfortable for the under-14 Lightning who were guided to victory by Gabriel Smith’s double in a 4-0 win over Ramsgate. Lewis Junior and Levi Linkins also found the net, with Linkins and Luke White named joint players-ofthe-match.

George Johnson scored under-12 Thunder’s equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Betteshanger. Sammy Laker battled hard and was awarded player-of-thematch honours.

Austin Wanmer’s 30-yard stunner was a highlight for under-11 Lightning against Margate Youth.

Kailan Wallace flicked in a second goal from a corner, with Wanmer named top player on the day for them.

Under-10 Thunder travelled to East Kent Rhinos and Sangive Giridharen and William Perkins netted, backed up by James Davies’ defensive efforts. Dylan Jones, Elliott Jones, with a penalty, and Sid Biscoe found the net for under-9 Lightning against Aylesham and Snowdown.

Riley Hawkins was excellent in defence but it was Tyger Pharoah who was named player-of-the-match for another all-action midfield performance. There were goals from Ollie Crosswell and exceptional player-of-the-match Dylan Lee in under-8 Hurricanes’ tight game against Canterbury Eagles.