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What a fantastic advert for youth football in Surrey.  Both teams gave 100% effort and it was a pity there had to be a loser on the day.  For an hour and 14 minutes these sides served up a thrilling cup tie which flowed end to end.  Carshalton had the early pressure but couldn't get the opening goal - which duly arrived at the other end after a weak clearance allowed Molesey to get behind us for a shot on target that went in.  

We roared back and deservedly equalised with a scrappy goal when Owen popped up in the right place and his shot trundled in off the far post.  Everything seemed to be in slow motion.  By halftime both sets of players were blowing hard, many having given their all.

There was more drama in the second half.  Molesey took the lead again on the break, so we switched to 3 at the back.  Things were a bit hairy for spells as we threw everything at them.  Our football and pressure was rewarded when David equalised with an astounding shot that nestled in the top stanchion and nearly took the frame of the goal out of the ground.  Once again Molesey managed to retake the lead with a cute lob over the keeper - a very composed finish.  With time running out, Carshalton were awarded a free kick 20 yards out.  Up stepped Arran to drill the ball low into the corner and the pace was too hot for the keeper who failed to keep the ball out of the net.

Extra time yielded no further goals, but plenty of incident as both sides went in search of the decisive goal.  It went to penalties which Molesey won in a tight finish.  Well done to those boys who stepped up to take the penalties.  There is a huge amount of pressure in these situations, and it takes a certain type of character to volunteer.  Our tactical decision to put Mitchell in goal for the penalties almost came off when he produced a wonderful save just under the bar

Good luck to Molesey in their semi final.  It was a very good game, very well reffed again by David Laughton.  Some of the football played at times was breathtaking and no-one could doubt the commitment of all players.  Once again Paul and I are hugely proud of the character of the side to come back 3 times in the game and also for the style of football we are playing.

So to the bar afterwards which was open for the Christmas food and drink.  Massive thanks to all who helped organise and set this up - especially to Jane for her hard work and the ladies in the kitchen.  David Laughton was presented with a bottle of whisky and said some kind words about the team and the Club.  On a personal note, thanks to everyone who contributed to Paul's and my presents, and to Tracey for organising it.  We have a great set of kids, parents and supporters.  You did us proud again with your conduct on and off the pitch... and in the bar of course!!  If there is anyone I've not named personally, please don't take offence.  I have the memory of a sieve.

Have a great Christmas break.  Get your breath back!  We will have a training session before our next game which is home to Oxshott Royals on 7 January (usual arrangements; 9.15 meet for 10am KO).

Buzz