22/07/2026
It was the last Tournament of summer 26, and our final 5 aside outing, as we now look towards the 26/27 season and our step up to 7 aside.....not just a level up in player numbers, but also in age category, as we go into the year above!
This final tournament at Norton Canes was very much 'a what might have been' kind of day, with the boys putting on a great performance, playing some tidy football, only to see themselves come up short for a variety of circumstances - some through in game errors, some bad luck, and some (and nobody likes bemoaning the refs) weird officiating/decisions (both for and against in fairness).
It all ended in the semi finals - a very tight match with Pelsall Villa, where after falling behind, the boys switched up a gear to turn it around to 2-1.
With barely any time left though, a moment of confusion - a stray ball from the neighbouring pitch came into, and through, the play, caused distraction and whilst it probably needed to be halted, the game continued and a scrappy episode saw Pelsall force in the equaliser....
The lads still managed to raid Pelsall's goal one more time though, but not manage to score, sadly.......FULL TIME, 2-2!
Penalties - 3 each to start, and the first from both teams despatched, but it was the middle spot kick where we came unstuck, and with Pelsall making it 3/3, our race was run!
Great effort, and an enjoyable afternoon.
Next up, a 7's friendly v Stone Alleynians - so far in our 7 aside preparations, we are unbeaten in 5, with 4 wins and a draw
