The Whites booked their place in the prestigious Wiltshire County Cup final thanks to an accomplished performance against former Mid-Wilts League rivals Trowbridge Town.
Colts’ previous two semi-final outings had been settled by penalty shootouts – including a defeat to the same Town side in 2013 – but they gave their watching parents and friends a far more comfortable ride this time.
Standing between them and the silverware is Highworth Town, who claimed a shock shootout win over North Wilts League champions Croft Reds in the day’s other last-four tie.
The hosts played up the slope in the first period and settled their nerves when Brandon M’s first-time finish from Toby’s pass evaded an out-of-position Town keeper.
That was the way it stayed until half-time as Trowbridge defended determinedly and in numbers to block Colts’ route to goal. Matthew, the lively Luke VDB and Callum were all halted after strong runs into the box and George twice saw efforts from distance blocked as he went in search of an early birthday present.
Brandon M’s header from Toby’s corner hit the bar and Bradley’s searching ball into the box was turned inches wide by Matthew with the last kick of the half.
But Trowbridge certainly had their moments in attack in the opening period and Josh, Bradley and Luke S formed a disciplined unit to make sure Max was never seriously tested. Luke S made numerous interventions and was excellent in the air and, on a rare occasion that the defence was beaten, Luke VDB produced a brilliant last-ditch challenge as a visiting player prepared to pull the trigger.
The tie was effectively settled by three quick goals at the start of a second half that saw the Colts hit top gear and produce some sublime passing football.
Brandon H worked tirelessly and unselfishly in attack and produced the first of his three assists when he laid the ball back for Matthew to slot home expertly from ten yards.
Luke S then grabbed the goal his display deserved as Trowbridge struggled to clear another corner from Toby and Matthew conjured up the goal of the game with a drive into the top corner that evaded the keeper’s reach.
Colts seldom resorted to the long ball as they built from the back time and again, with Max distributing and communicating well. Josh and Bradley linked up with wide players George, Toby and Luke VDB and were never hurried in possession.
Chances came and went – with Brandon H so unfortunate not to get his name on the scoresheet, Toby firing just wide of the far post and Bradley hitting the crossbar direct from a corner – before Brandon M doubled his tally from close range with the final goal of the afternoon.
Colts have seen off the best bigger clubs such as Salisbury City, FC Calne and now Trowbridge can offer at U11 level en route to the final. Whatever happens next, it has been a truly memorable run that has really helped to put the club on the map. All 13 boys in the squad have played their part and should be incredibly proud of their efforts.
MOM: Luke S.