Macmillan's Year 7s shed blood, sweat and tears as they showed their heart and soul in one of the most intense and entertaining football matches that will ever be played by a Macmillan team.
A remarkable spectacle for all involved as Macmillan's Year 7s shed blood, sweat and tears as they showed their heart and soul in one of the most intense and entertaining football matches that will ever be played by a Macmillan team.
A huge second round national cup tie was the task in hand against a St Aidans side packed full of quality players and Leeds United academy prospects. The team from Harrogate had the majority of first half possession and on the 20 minute mark had the ball scrambled into the net, but no wound was inflicted on Mr Richardson's squad, the goal ruled out for offside.
The selection of debutant goalkeeper Sam Train after a strong performance in training proved a wise choice as he made his mark, with a solid performance and a triplet of exquisite saves. Cain Clark made his way onto the pitch in place of Dylan Savvery during the break, which was the subject of a 0-0 scoreline.
St Aidans pressed as the second half launched into action Sam Train showed yet again why he should be the starting goalkeeper, watching the ball hang in the air, jumping and stretching to flick the ball over the bar, his fingertips the difference in the score-line.
A huge moment of controversy then erupted in the focal point of the half, with Oliver Kearny scythed down by the opposition goalkeeper, a free kick, a red for the challenge and the immediate following of hand ball. Full time and the deadlock remained. Two 7 minute halves were all that separated the teams from a penalty shoot-out.
After saves from both goalkeepers, the stalemate was unlocked with a sweetly struck free kick into the top corner mid-way through the first extra time period. Play was then interrupted as a collision forced centre half Charlie Clayton to retreat from battle, blood pouring from his face, first aid required to repair the damage.
After a penalty in the closing moments of the second half put St Aidans through, fatigue and a very proud Macmillan squad was left in the end, plenty of positives to take from the bitter taste of defeat. But if Mr Richardson's side can play every game in that manner there's no telling where they will stop.
Match Stats:
Match Stats |
Macmillan |
St Aidans |
Goals |
0 |
2 |
Shots |
8 |
17 |
On Target |
6 |
12 |
Corners |
3 |
5 |
Fouls |
2 |
2 |
By Tom Carmichael, Sports Correspondent