Year 10 BSYL. 13/04. Rockleaze 1-3 Foxes. Cup Semiv final

And so to the cup semi final.  A mid-week game at Stoke Lodge. Ref and two linesmen. A bit of a crowd and a sense of occasion.

Unfortunately the pitch was pretty bobbly, due to the dry weather and when this was added to the significant cross-slope and the longish grass added a sense of lottery to any attempts at a passing game. 

Anyway. The Foxes were determined to reach yet another final and Rockleaze, with a stronger match-day squad than usually available to them on Saturday's, were equally determined to defend the cup that they had won the previous season.

The Foxes tried to get the ball down and pass but the conditions soon stopped that and we did end up being drawn in to a slightly rushed, ball in the air pattern of play. The first half ended 0-0, with the Foxes spending significant periods attacking but Rockleaze looking threatening on the break.

The second half followed a similar rhythm but when Omar slotted away the first goal it did feel as if that would be enough. To the home side's credit they shuffled their formation and drew level with a well-taken goal. The nerves started to escalate as a single slip or a bit of luck could have led to defeat. As it transpired a brave goal from Dom Riley, followed by a final-whistle third from Omar ensure another final for the Foxes.