First Half

Wilford kicked off today’s cup tie, and from the off it looked like it was going to be a close game. Both sides were quick to close each other down, and the majority of the first half was battled out in midfield. However, Wilford’s creativity in the final third saw them have the better chances to take the lead. Fortunately for Cotgrave, the Wilford strikers were unable to get their shots on target, and any they did were superbly saved by Jake Reed in goal. Cotgrave also had their chances too, and the breakthrough we needed came in the 20 th minute when Keenan Berry’s pinpoint corner found Will Robinson who guided the ball into the back of the Wilford net, to make it 1-0 Cotgrave. The Cotgrave defenders, Keaton Powell & Zak Bemrose were again impressive at the back, and cleared off the line just before the half time whistle. The midfield trio were relieved to hear the whistle blow, for a well deserved drink and breather.

Half Time

Wilford Mavericks 0-1 Cotgrave

Second Half

Cotgrave got the second half underway, but immediately lost possession to a much livelier Wilford. Some early second half pressure saw Wilford have much of the possession, and again the better chances to get back into the game. For the second week running, Cotgrave conceded a penalty, as Will Robinson appeared to handle the ball in the area. Although it looked like he was protecting his face from the ball, his hands were high, so no complaints. The Wilford penalty taker made no mistake, and rifled the ball past Jake to make it 1-1 in the 33 rd minute. The goal that Cotgrave conceded seemed to give the players a lift, and it was evident that they still believed they were going to win the game. Liam Hurworth and Will Robinson continued to battle for everything in midfield and in the 37 th minute neatly slipped the ball through to Johnny Commins who turned his marker and placed the ball into the bottom corner of the Wilford net. Cotgrave made the changes in the final few minutes as players began to tire, Joshua Childs, George Morris and Luke Williams came off the bench to protect the lead we had taken. The final couple of minutes were tense for everyone as Wilford pushed all their players forward, but Cotgrave managed to hang on to their lead, and claimed a well deserved place in the semi finals.

Final Score

Wilford Mavericks 1-2 Cotgrave

Summary

What can I say? Another excellent performance from everyone today. Wilford were the highest placed team left in the competition, so this was always going to be a tough test for us. Again everyone played well as a team today, and remained focused and also patient in the build up to our goals. We’ve now reached the semi final, which is an excellent achievement for us, and I believe we have as good a chance as anyone to go on and reach the final. I personally think you deserved victory today, against a well organised Wilford side, and comments from their supporters and Manager after the game were much appreciated. Good luck to Wilford for the rest of the season, and a big thanks to their supporters for the warm welcome we received.