HORSHAM

Goalscorers

EPSOM&EWELL: Matherson(10,52)

HORSHAM 1 Epsom & Ewell 2

Thursday 8th September 2011

FA Youth Cup Preliminary Round

Three Bridges FC

Attendance: TBA

On the way to the game all hopes and dreams were buzzing as the U18 began what they hoped would be a long-lasting journey in the FA Youth Cup. The whole squad and backroom staff felt the side were fully prepared; tactics were set, the formation decided and the squad selected. Everything felt right and, in the opening minutes, it was Horsham who looked the liveliest but 10 minutes gone and a penalty was awarded to Epsom and Ewell for a push in the box. Horsham's good start turned sour as Matherson put the ball in the back of the net.

The goal seemed to stun Horsham and they couldn't get to grips with the game until a great pass from Surlis was slotted home by Ojo on the stroke of half-time.

H/T Horsham 1 Epsom & Ewell 1

The second half saw Horsham squander chances in front of goal and they were made to pay when Matherson claimed his second on 52 minutes. Those two goals, some poor passing and decision making by the hosts, saw Horsham exit the Cup early. losing 2-1.

The defeat was especially disappointing given that their scheduled First Qualifying Round opponents, Arundel, had withdrawn from the competition meaning the the winners of this tie were handed a bye through to the next round. Not many lads at Youth level get the chance to play in the FA Youth Cup and some sympathy must go to the players, the backroom staff and Manager. But we must regroup, move on and work on mistakes and learn from them.

This report can't go without a special mention for Club President Frank King who sat in the stand encouraging the lads all they way through the second half, having travelled along to Three Bridges after attending first team training earlier in the evening. It was a tremendous gesture and one that was appreciated by all at Horsham Youth.