South West Counties Championship

Saturday 6th October 

Gloucestershire U18 4 – 1 Cornwall U18

Cornwall slipped to a disappointing defeat against a strong and talented Gloucestershire side at the 3G surface at Almondsbury. 

Having to make 4 enforced changes of the squad from our win against Bedfordshire and after seeing the influential Alex Wharton injured after 15 minutes it was always going to be a tough challenge for Cornwall, the challenge was made even harder due to a sloppy start which saw us 2-0 down after 10 minutes. Gloucestershire pressed from the start of the match and put Cornwall on the back foot, taking the lead 4 minutes into the game. After winning the ball in midfield the Gloucestershire player slipped a perfect side foot pass into the path of the right winger and his calm composed finish was outstanding into the bottom corner.

Cornwall looked to re-group but were almost 2-0 down after 8 minutes, Cornwall lost the ball at the back and the same number 7 who scored the opener broke on the right wing, he cut inside and curled a great effort towards goal but his shot hit the post and Cornwall breathed a sigh of relief, however the relief was short lived as the ball found itself to the left wing and a good cross was collected by a Gloucestershire striker who fired home.

Gloucestershire remained on the front foot with Cornwall limited to trying to counter when they could, it seemed like Cornwall had settled though and were gaining a foothold in the match. Then after half an hour Gloucestershire made it 3, this time a through ball to the left winger cut apart the Cornwall defence, it looked as though the danger may be averted but the Cornwall defender unfortunately slipped and gave the Gloucestershire winger a free run on goal and he made no mistake. Half Time finished 3-0 to the home side. 

A much improved side came out for the 2nd half and seemed to regain their composure, they had more of the ball and looked to press, leaving themselves a little open at the back as they had to try to get back into the game. The industrious George Tucker went close with an effort from distance and Briar and Flack on the wings were much more involved as well. Just as Cornwall seemed to be on the front foot Gloucestershire made it 4 with a lightening quick break which ended with the left winger pulling the ball back for the onrushing striker.

To their credit the Cornwall players never stopped working and managed a consolation goal thanks to a fine long range strike from left back Jackson Penhallurick, all in all a goal was deserved for the effort and endeavour of the team. The Full-Time whistle went and it was Gloucestershire who ran out deserved 4-1 winners.

Attention now turns to The FA County Youth Cup 2nd Round tie against Norfolk on Saturday 27th October at Helston AFC and we hope to see a big turnout for our first home game of the season!