After a fantastic run, the best ever, in the M.C.F.A. Intermediate County Cup this semi was rather disappointing. Yes, some of the regular players did not start or play any part in the match but the starting line up was still very good. The pitch was very, very heavy and had as much sand on it as a beach !! Once again against Broadfields, Marsh found themselves 1-0 down as early as the 5 minute, then 2 – 0 down after 11 minutes thanks to a possible own goal. A massacre looked on the cards !!!!! It was not until midway through the half that Marsh started to PLAY. When they did, they did !!!!! They looked every bit a very good side. Broadfields were driven back, deep into their own half. Marsh mustered wave after wave of attack and it was little surprise, although very pleasing, when they scored. On the half hour, excellent team work ended with Alex Henderson picking out BRADLEY HAND who made no mistake with his finish to put Marsh back in the match. Marsh continued to press forward, and look good. Wave after wave of attack came from Marsh without any further finish. Broadfields were never out of it but Marsh were chasing the equaliser with style. Another fine move by Marsh saw them equalise through Bradley Hand ..... but NO, it was flagged offside. (probably a correct decision but still disappointing for Marsh). Deep into stoppage time Broadfields received a Penalty when a rash challenge resulted in their player being upended. Marsh keeper Adam Casey saved the kick but Broadfields reacted quickest and tucked away the free rolling ball. This was a killer. Marsh had battled back so well but now all seemed over again. Manager Dave Campbell needed to lift his side now as never before !! The second half started with Marsh once again on the attack, and Broadfields on the back foot. Still this came to nothing and Broadfields certainly got back into the game. From close in they scored number 4. With 10 minutes to go [new father .....congratulations] PHILTUBB forced the ball home for the Marsh 2nd, but no further goals followed.
Broadfields now play Park View in the Final, whilst Marsh are still battling for the League Premier Championship and two further Domestic Cups in their own League.
This is by far the best any Marsh Rangers F.C. Team has ever achieved in the Clubs existence. Still, this was a disappointment but LETS STILL GET SOMETHING this season. We can certainly do it as we have a very good squad. KEEP GOING LADS.
Reported by Clive Goodman.