FINE MARGINS AT CANE LANE

On a warm afternoon at Cane Lane, Grove - the BUNNYFIELD sponsored Freds encountered even hotter opposition in what can only be described as Russian Roulette [ football style ] against an abundance of A League teams.

If you think you're going to switch off for a second or two in a straight eight minutes, chances are, you'll get hit. Any one from six active players

carry a threat.

So it was immensely satisfying to see players go beyond what is comfortable, mentally and physically, and get some reward for their best efforts!

Both teams ( Green and White ) played with intent, and carried a goal threat throughout. Things to work on? Always. But it was a good afternoon for the town.

The supplementary quarter-finals arrived. Both teams featured.

The Whites [ Lewis Jordan, Will Beynon, Alex Rose, Jake Stewart, Jacob Haines, Joe George, Kyle Cross ] struck first against Abingdon, but were unfortunately overturned. They enjoyed goals from Kyle Cross, Joe George, Jacob Haines and Jake Stewart on the day.

The Greens [ Jake Brown, Roan Stillion, Guy Woolley, Matthew Goodman, Christian Marsh, Jonny Hall, Ray Rwodzi ] crossed swords with all the serious contenders in their qualifying group and left a bloody nick here and there.

They were among equals.

Greens faced Bardwell Youth ( another A League team ) in the quarter-final and spanked them for their ill-discipline, 3-0.

Bure Park thought they might offer some resistance in the semi-final, but were no match for 'synergy in hoops'.

Roan Stillion ( exercising speed, strength, balance, co-ordination, agility - and anything else you care to throw into the mix ) scored an incredible goal, and promptly sent a message to Lionel Messi and Barcelona.

Didcot Town [ Final ] seized upon a minute and hit two quick goals in a frenzied 60 seconds. The first, nicely crafted. The second, clinical.

It was a test of character.

Unmoved, patient in process, the magnificent seven squared the game in good time - against the odds.

An additional four minutes couldn't separate the two teams and penalties followed.

Jake Brown ( between the sticks ) stood tall, always went the way of the strike, which put immense pressure on the takers. Incredibly unlucky.

Fifth round of penalties.

Reds convert.

Freds strike the jam jar.

Sweet effort.

But no cigar.

Wantage Town Football Club thank ALL FOURTEEN players!