Men’s Sunday Team Lift the Cup!
Congratulations to our men’s Sunday Team who won their Tameside League Divisional Cup Final on Friday night at Hyde United’s impressive Project Solar Stadium!
After a 7-4 victory over Infinity Initiatives in the semi-final, Joint Managers Mark Jackson and Andrew Nesbitt were expecting a tough final against a strong AFC Audenshaw team. They were proven to be correct and it took a remarkable team effort, with all 16 players contributing to Oldham bringing home the cup.
Audenshaw started the game well with the pace of the front 3 causing AFCO problems, and an early goal was correctly ruled out for offside. Oldham grew into the game though, taking the lead 20 minutes in when striker Kyle Hawley smashed the ball into the opponents net following a corner. 1-0.
Audenshaw ramped up the pressure, trying to hit back quickly with chances hitting the post and the bar. But on 30 minutes, Oldham were 2-0 up when captain Adam Brown headed emphatically into the net after a great free kick delivery from Ben Bayes.
Disappointment struck for Oldham after 40 minutes when a counter attack from Audenshaw resulted in them pulling a goal back. Half time score: AFC Oldham 2 – 1 AFC Audenshaw.
The second half was a real backs to the wall performance from AFC Oldham, with every single player using every ounce of energy to maintain the lead. The defenders were called upon for numerous last ditch tackles and behind them, goalkeeper Matteo saved his best performance of the season for the final, making some crucial saves for his team.
With players tiring and injuries taking their toll, managers Mark and Andrew were under pressure to get their substitutions right. Their judgement was spot on as all of the substitutes contributed to the brilliant team performance.
Late in the game and on a rare break into the Audenshaw half, Kyle Hawley charged down a clearance and banged the ball into their net. Unfortunately for Oldham, the celebrations were cut short as the referee harshly gave handball against Kyle.
With Audenshaw piling on the pressure and Oldham’s management and supporters biting their fingernails, the second half seemed to go on forever. And just when the game seemed over, a 90th minute corner for Audenshaw provided them with a lifeline. A cross was swung into the box and the ball was met by an Audenshaw centre half, he headed towards the AFC Oldham goal only for captain, Adam Brown to appear from nowhere and head the ball off the line. Phew!
The referee blew the final whistle to start the players and supporter’s celebrations.
Mark Jackson said “It was a fantastic performance with every player working their socks off. I’m really proud of them all.”
Joint Manager Andrew added “I really don’t know what to say! After a really tough season, the lads have never stopped working, never hidden from the challenge and that spirit and determination carried them over the line in what was a tough fixture.”