06/12/2019
MATCH RESULT: (Cuppers Round of 16)
Clare I’s (3) vs Pembroke I’s (2)
MOTM: Callum Thomson
The magic of the cup was well and truly alive on Sunday as underdogs Clare surged to victory over a Pembroke side topping the division above.
It was a tight first half during which Clare had the lion’s share of the ball but struggled to create many clearcut chances, while a slick defence of James Adeosun, Matt Wright and Matt de Brett stifled any sign of danger
However, as the second half was drawing to a close, captain James Rodgers let loose a stunning drive from range which rocketed into the top corner to rapturous celebration from CCFC.
The lead was extended in the second half as the dominant midfield trio linked up, Ed Cooke sliding a delicate ball through to Man of the Match Callum Thompson to slot cooly past the salmon-clad Pembroke keeper.
Around the 70 minute mark, Pembroke started to get back into the game as they threw everything at Clare to get back into the game and eventually the pressure gave with a set piece setting the score at 2-1
The next 15 were a true test of Clare’s concentration, endurance and mental strength as they weathered a storm, putting their bodies on the line in an increasingly physical encounter. Finally, bursting forward as a yellow hive on another dangerous counter and Josh Korber Hoffman was able to finesse finish right into the bottom corner to kill off the game, after some excellent individual work from Arthur Seymour. Even another late consolation goal for Pembroke with one of the final kicks of the game couldn’t unnerve Clare, as they go marching on to Cuppers Glory.
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