BERKS COUNTY EDGED OUT IN CUP FINAL
Esoteric Division One Challenge Cup Final
BERKS COUNTY missed out on the chance to finish their season by taking silverware after they were beaten by London Lions.
The Swords came close to capitalising on their attacking play eight minutes in when they stole possession from Lions, but the goalkeeper made an exceptional stop to keep out Sackey.
Just four minutes later, London Lions made County pay for their missed chance when Jake Furman put the league champions ahead.
It was a suckerpunch for Berks as Lions quickly added a second just a few minutes after the opener when Max Kyte slotted home.
The Swords looked to fight back and almost grabbed a goal back in the 18th minute when Sackey got behind the Lions’ defence and found Hayden, but his effort was well stopped by the keeper.
Berks then came agonisingly close again just before the break when Sackey hit a powerful strike that sailed just over the top of the bar.
County went into half-time two goals down with plenty of work to do to get back into the contest.
Berks provided a stern test for the Lions and were unfortunate not to have got back in the game when Hayden’s brilliant hit free-kick thumped the crossbar.
But County were unable to force their way back into the tie as Lions saw out their two-goal advantage and completed a league and cup double.
Berks County first-team joint manager Lee Simpson said: “Ahh football, the thing that keeps us sane but also drives us insane. Huge effort from our group this season. We have all learnt big lessons about this league. Consistency has cost us. But still in our debut season there has been progress. Big thanks to all volunteers and club members for all the support. We had some great moments. Vase run and support in the final.”
Co-manager Ellis Woods added: “I’d like to take this opportunity, now the season’s done, to thank everyone at Berks County FC, one again, for what has been a brilliant season. Our players, the volunteers, the club trustees and committee members. Everyone has backed myself and Lee every step of the way. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone for the support throughout the season and I’m so proud of where we’ve taken the club. It’s time for a week or two’s break to take stock and look at the next step in our journey. Lots to do and think about.”
Berks County: Harris, Griffiths, Hobbs, Lee, Akem-Che, Craske, Money, Brighton, Hayden, Sackey, Allan
Subs: Kennedy, Edwards, J Smith, D Smith
London Lions: Samberg, Lipman, Landesberg, Cohen, Weinberger, Mordecai, Furman, Barnett, Kyte, Creese, Lipman
Subs:: T Levenfiche, Mattey, L Levenfiche,
Arnold, Wagner