HAMPSHIRE CUP SEMI-FINAL
After being the last remaining Portsmouth League side left in the County Cup, Emsworth was drawn away to Bournemouth side Rushmere in the County Cup semi-final stage. The Oystermen have been drawn away in every round of the tournament and once again Emsworth we’re on the road. Most matches around Hampshire were called off but Rushmere’s fantastic playing pitch remained match-fit to play on.
Emsworth kicked off the match and was determined to start the game strong. The first 20 minutes were a real old-fashioned battle, Rushmere was strong in the midfield but Emsworth Town were dangerous when they got the ball down. As the half went on Town grew in confidence and gained momentum. Emsworth scored two disallowed goals after a half hour due to offside. It was coming. The half-time whistle game and it was a question of whether Ems could continue this dominance after the break.
The first half started and Rushmere was on the front foot giving The Oystermen a big scare as they hit the woodwork within the first 5 minutes. Coming off the post, Emsworth hit it long and counter-attack their opposition, finding Mauro Morais who received the ball from a wide area beat the defender to his right cut in and smashed it into the roof of the net. Wild celebrations and players and supporters realising what holding onto this lead will result in.
After that, the game changed into a nervy last half hour, a very tight affair where Rushmere are desperate to get back level in the game and The Town are desperate to keep their noses in front. Emsworth defended well and managed to keep Rushmere out.
1-0 winners on the day and become finalists of the Hampshire Cup, no Emsworth side has ever won a county cup and we hope this year ends the long wait.
Man of the Match: Jake Lynch
Goal scorer: Mauro Morais
