Lympstone Under 11s Wildcats arrived at Tiverton Town football club on May 5 to play the Exeter District Cup Finals against serial winners Exeter Central Scorpions.
After a delayed kick off, Scorpions made a strong start but were kept at bay by the outstanding defence of Charlie Edbrooke, Max Gratwicke and Jimbo Briggs, coupled with outstanding saves from goalkeeper Jack Lewis.
Despite falling behind to an unstoppable shot, Lympstone equalised almost immediately due to the strong midfield play by Austen Owen and Oscar Steenson, releasing Locke Whiteford down the right.
His wicked cross, as well as the physical presence of centre forward Harry Hallett, caused confusion in the box and the goalie fumbled the cross behind him.
After a lengthy review by referee and linesman, the goal was given, 1-1.
At halftime, coaches David Owen and Stuart Whiteford brought on Harry Wilkinson for his speed and movement upfront, causing problems for Scorpions’ defence.
Despite this, Scorpions scored an early penalty, and dominated much of the second half.
With 10 left to play, Charlie Jenner and Raff Townsend were brought on to look for an equaliser, but with the seconds ticking down it appeared fruitless.
With only 10 dying seconds left on the clock, Lympstone were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box and free kick specialist, Oscar Steenson stepped up.
The ball fizzed into the box, hitting the wall and landing in front of Austen Owen, who teed it up for George Samson to smash in a top corner goal, sealing the final kick of normal time.
Ten minutes of extra time would settle a heroic win.
With the opposition’s heads down, Lympstone could smell blood.
Whilst Charlie Jenner was causing mayhem for the opposition’s midfield, a ball was played through to Raff Townsend, who took on two defenders and coolly slotted home to take the lead.
Scorpions tried to find another late goal, but the Lympstone defence were having none of it.
The full-time whistle blew and Lympstone U11’s won the first bit of silverware in the club’s history.
A big thank you to all the parents for your cheering on the side-lines and Ethical Power for your sponsorship.
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