WFA National Cup Over 50's Regional Final

The weather was perfect for football as we arrived on Canvey Island for the WFA National Cup Regional Final against Concord Rangers for an 11.15am kick off.  We arrived as reigning Over 50's London Regional Champions and Concord Rangers were our opponents courtesy of a 9-1 demolition of Barnet in the semi-final.  A place in the National Finals in September was at stake, so all to play for.

Our lads were carrying a couple of injuries notably to Matt Toms and Nick Brand, but we started the game well and at a good pace.  Working the ball well down the left it wasn't long before we had the ball in the net, with a well taken goal from Jim Holmes, only for the ref to deem Holmes was 'not walking'. Unfortunately, midway through the first half Nick Brand was unable to continue, his foot injury getting the better of him. Pat Corregan was his replacement. The game continued to ebb and flow with both sides creating chances. Paul Bagley in goal pulled off a great save just before half time, to keep the score level. 

The second half started like the first with possibly Concord having more of the ball. Concord's striker who seems to play for any team who might win something, was kept quiet by some great defending from Matt Toms. Barry Crane up front worked like a trojan partnered by Corregan, holding the ball up well. The pair worked a fine opening for Paul Lowe, whose powerful shot just cleared the bar. Lowe running the risk of a blue card for three offences, was then replaced  by Mike Oakley, who put in a solid performance on the left side of midfield.

Another well worked chance fell to Toms, who from distance rattled the post with a superb driven shot. At the other end Bagley was proving what a great keeper he is with some great saves, which was really frustrating their 'trophy chasing' striker!

With just 12 minutes left to play, and penalties looking more and more likely, Hemel were reduced to five men with a most bizzare blue card. Corregan was going to be replaced by Mark Gunnell, but as Corregan was about to step over the white line, Gunnell was already on the pitch which meant that the referee had no option but to blue card him, before he had even kicked a ball!  Five minutes in the sin bin was always going to be a hard ask, but the lads stuck to their guns. However, when we were back to a full squad with just 2 minutes left, Concord managed to score with a low powerful shot, which Bagley saw late. 1-0 the final score.  So our journey ends in a cruel way, but we have had a great run in the National Cup this season getting to the Regional Final two years running! Congratulations and good luck to Concord Rangers at the National Finals!

Squad: Paul Bagley, Matt Toms, Paul Lowe, Barry Crane, Nick Brand, Pat Corregan, Mick Oakley, Jim Holmes, Mark Gunnell.