Presteigne Reserves lifted The Alfred Sparey Cup 2-1 in a tight game between two evenly matched sides.
Saints manager Andrew “H” Harris was dealt a massive blow just before the game when his two most influential players(Rob Snedden and Captain Alec Winstone) pulled out due to injury and unavailability.
Presteigne edged the first half and were rewarded for their efforts when youngster Callum Matthews scored a good individual goal from eight yards after a good run down the right hand side.
Trevor Gummer pulled off an excellent save from Saints top scorer John Sly, tipping a goal bound header around the post. Although Presteigne were on top possession wise they never really created a lot, saying that Sam Bradley and Will Goodwin had to clear two very dangerous balls into the box with Jack Bowen waiting at the far post. The half time score was 1-0 Presteigne.
Jake Atkinson chasing the ball down.
The second half started much the same as the first and within five minutes the hosts were 2-0 up after a goal by Tom Watkins.
The Saints started to compete more after this setback and managed to pull a goal back from Steve Jones who was their best player on the day, a Graeme Keeble corner was met with a thumping header from Jones to make it 2-1.
The Saints were dominant the last twenty minutes, Wayne Evans hit the post from 25 yards and again Gummer made a great save from Ceri Ward with 8 minutes to go. Presteigne hung on though to the final whistle to claim the cup.
The winning side.
Saints man of the match Steve Jones celebrates his goal.
I enjoyed todays game, once again just one goal seperated the two sides, Trevor pulled off two brilliant saves which proved to be the difference on the day.
I’d like to thank Presteigne for inviting us into the competition and their hospitality after the game.
It’s time now for a well earned break for our club.
Tonk..
Team- Steve Price, Steve Jones(Ceri Ward), Sam Bradley(c), Toby Johnson, Jake Atkinson, Will Goodwin, Graeme Keeble(Jamie Howard), Garry Keeble, Wayne Evans, John Sly, Lloyd Holland(Mike Ward). Unused Sub Stu Snedden.