South East Counties WFL - Chairman Cup
HEATH WIN THROUGH IN NAILBITING PENALTY SHOOT _OUT
Haywards Heath 2 (Mel Bramley 2, [1 Pen]) Castle Colts 2 (aet) Heath won 3-2 on penalties 28th Jan 2007
On a very sticky pitch, Heath entertained Kent side Castle Colts from Div 1 East in an exciting game, the outcome of which was in doubt for most of the game. Heath were adventurous and had many more shots on goal but it was clearly a day when the “shooting boots” had been left behind whilst Colts relied heavily on sending long balls towards Heaths goal , a tactic that speedy defender Debbie Johnson dealt with effectively . Injury reduced Colts to 10 players but this seemed to inspire them and they coped well making it difficult for Heath. With 12 mins remaining of the half Colts scored first with a superb shot from over 30 yds following a corner but within 5 mins Heath’s Mel Bramley equalised from the penalty spot after she was tripped following a penetrating run.
In the 2nd half Heath were on top but where unable to make their superiority count although Mica Saunders hit the bar with a fine effort but finally went ahead midway through the half after a superb run and cross from Saunders and player of the match, Mel Bramley was on hand to force the ball home. Colts equalised against the run of play with a speculative high lob cum shot from long range. Heath were denied consistently by Colts outstanding goalkeeper.
In the 2nd period of extra time Colts went close in a goalmouth scramble but at the final whistle nothing could separate the weary teams.
Heath ran out winners after the penalty shoot out after they converted three of their four penalties whilst Heaths keeper Kelly Lambert made a save, saw one shot go over and Colts final penalty kick hit the crossbar to put Heath through to the next round . On the day with every player contributing fully Heath deserved the result against one of the most sporting opponents they have ever met. The game was a credit to both sides.
Team: Kelly Lambert; Michelle Winnard; Julie Hawthorne (Capt); Debbie Johnson; Eve Todhunter; George Thomas;(Kim Mitchell 103); Mel Bramley; Penny Gittins; Mica Saunders; Mel Broome(Cath Diffey 68); Fran Pritlove.
To return to the "Results" page