Under 11 United just edged out in thriller

Banbury United Under 11s gave their all in a thrilling encounter in the Oxford Mail Spring Cup semi final at Bullingdon Youth, Headington this morning.

Making the better start an early corner 3 minutes in nearly turned into an own goal as Bullingdon struggled to clear. In the first 10 minutes there were one or two cynical challenges as they struggled to cope with Banbury’s pace, Charlie Woods was pulled back when in on goal on 10 minutes. The resulting kick from just outside the area was saved as Joseph Sparkes shot directly at goal. Charlie was in again 3 minutes later with just the keeper to beat, his shot smothered. Banbury continued to press and there was some fine defending from the Bullingdon team. In a rare foray upfield Bullingdon had a free kick well saved from Kallum Vaughan in the Banbury goal. It was 0-0 at half time.

In the 2nd half it was Banbury who again started the sharper, an excellent run down the left from Kai Source and cross into the Bullingdon area found Max Galloway, the keeper was very fortunate to save his shot in the 35th minute. Five minutes later and Joseph split the defence with an excellent pass to Max whose shot was brilliantly saved by the Bullingdon keeper. Very much against the run of play, Bullingdon took the lead with a fine free kick just outside the area this time converted. In the 50th minute Kai was replaced as he stretched for the ball – the end of a fine game for him. Banbury continued to look for a leveller but a mix up in defence enabled Bullingdon to build a 2-0 cushion.
In the 55th minute Filip Wójkic had the vision to put a through ball to Max and this time he slotted the ball past the keeper. Banbury continued to pile on the pressure in the last 5 minutes, desperately looking for an equaliser, Cole Relton made an excellent run down the length of the left hand side of the pitch and moments later from the resulting throw in flung himself across the goal as the ball was crossed in – unfortunately it beat everyone!

A very good game that was a joy to watch, Banbury were very unlucky not to take something from it. Final Score Bullingdon Youth 2 Banbury Utd Youth 1