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Posted on January 31st 2017
Federation Cup Semi Final - HBAED 2 Crystal Palace 0
The Year 11 football team were given the afternoon off from their progress sessions on Friday to represent the Academy against Harris Crystal Palace in the semi final of the Harris Federation Cup.
HBAED controlled all of the possession in the first half with tidy play across the back four and through into midfield with Tom and Ernest always available for the ball to feet. However, we struggled to create any clear cut chances and I think it's fair to say some of the team starting to get frustrated and lose belief in what they were doing.
In the closing stages of the half we won a free kick on the edge of the area which Sam came over to swing in with his left foot. The ball was perfectly placed to the back post where Romeo was waiting to tap in only for John (Year 10) to glance in front and flick the ball past the outrushing Palace keeper with a deft touch. 1-0 at half time.
Quality on the ball
The second half was much of the same, with HBAED controlling the game through hard work and quality on the ball. We got the second goal after a counter attack from a Palace corner. Ahamed played a through ball to Nathan who nonchalantly lobbed the out coming goalkeeper from 40 yards. A truly breath-taking goal. 2-0 at full time.
The final, where we will be looking to defend our trophy, will be played against local rivals Harris Peckham at Crystal Palace National Arena.
Man of the Match: Romeo had another excellent game at right back. Dominating their left midfielder and distributing the ball well to build our attacks.
Stepping Up: Tom and Ernest worked tirelessly as a partnership in the centre of midfield to disrupt the opposition and control possession.
Josh Connolly, Director of Sport
