Sporting came back from behind in an entertaining encounter with Pilkington to qualify for their first ever Smedley Crooke Cup final.
Seven former Rouslers lined up for the home side so there was always going to be plenty for them to play for. However, it was the away side who dominated the first 20 minutes keeping the ball up field but Pilkington defended well, closing down all moves and preventing any real chances.
Somewhat against the run of play, Pilks took the lead on 21 minutes when Connor Mooney managed to evade last defender Danny Morris and with just Jake Bedford to beat slid the ball wide of the keeper's left arm into the corner of the net.
Sporting though continued to press forward but they were well-contained by a resolute home defence.
As the second half went on Pilkington's tired legs found it more difficult to maintain their chasing and closing down game and as the match opened up, Sporting took advantage on the 74th minute when Mark Bellingham received a long ball from his own half and headed goalwards before slotting past Chris Mole. There was a hint of offside but no flag was raised.
Six minutes later, Sporting took the lead when lively substitute Rico Taylor hit over a sublime cross to an unmarked Mark Bellingham who easily headed home.
Pilkington attempted to press for an equaliser and despite some good work up front by Dimitri Brown, the Sporting back line held firm.
Pilkington: Chris Mole, Tom Rankin, Gareth Davies (Capt.), Joe Brookes, Kieran McCalla, Jack Wicketts, Jack Lodge, Phil Midworth (Dan Tierney 85 mins), Odane Barnes, Dimitri Brown, Connor Mooney (Laurence Martin 62 mins).
Subs not used: Jack McGinn, Cory Virgo-Broom, Jack Gauntlett.
Sporting: Jake Bedford, Brett Mander, Jack Wilson (Chris Duggan 61 mins), Matt Poyner, Craig Jones (Capt.), Danny Morris, Sean Williams, Sam Wilkinson, Mark Bellingham, Billy Russell (Will Tibbetts 68 mins), Danny Ludlow (Rico Taylor 61 mins).
Subs not used: Darius Darkin, Ryan Andrews. |