The Saints won the Otway Cup Final today beating Rhosgoch Rangers FC 1-0.
A goal in the 17th minute from Jack Biggs was enough to bring the trophy home for the second time in three seasons. The Presteigne committee voted Steve Goodwin as the man of the match.
After a positive start to the final, the Saints went ahead in the 17th minute, following a hopeful ball into the corner. Rhosgoch Rangers left back Chris Price attempted to shepherd out of play but was caught in possession and Jack Biggs ran in on goal before firing a low shot past Adam Jones at his near post. The Crows replied six minutes later with a snap shot from player/manager Liam Jones that flew just wide of the target. Biggs nearly doubled his tally, and that of the Saints, six minutes after the interval when he pulled an effort just wide of goal after he was found in space on the edge of the Crows’ penalty area. A 55th minute corner from Liam Jones came back off the crossbar before seeing a low free-kick from 25 yards out turned behind by Saints custodian Tom Lewis.
A Steve Morgan cross from the right flank was headed just over by Geraint Lloyd in the 55th minute as the cup holders enjoyed a good spell of possession after the interval. Hay St Mary’s attempted the withstand the pressure and nearly extended their lead, with 14 minutes of the match remaining, as Rob Snedden broke down the right and delivered a cross that Biggs headed goalwards but was blocked by two Rangers defenders at the far post. The Saints saw a header cleared off the post from an 85th minute corner before the Crows nearly snatched an equaliser in the final minute of normal time. Liam Jones went on a mazy run, rounding Tom Lewis, but seeing his goal-bound shot cleared for a corner. Neil Davies struck the outside of the goal from that corner but the Saints were able to hold on for victory and conclude a promotion season with some silverware.
Saints 1 Rhosgoch Rangers FC 0.
Many thanks to Stu Townsend for the photos.