Late Heartbreak

MLFC were left to rue a failure to turn almost total domination of the game into noteworthy chances and goals as they succumbed to a late West Wickham winner, awarded despite the scorer appearing to be literally yards offside.

But whilst their was controversy in the winning goal, the hosts really need to look closer to home for the real reason they missed out on a semi final berth. Playing with the wind in the opening half they restricted Wickham to only the rarest of forays into Maccabi territory, but the conditions certainly aided to an inability to look after the ball and, with the visitors well organised at the back, it was no surprise clear chances were at a premium. There were plenty of crosses and shots, but the keeper wasn't really tested.

A half time rocket seemed to have the desired effect, as despite now playing against the wind the hosts were far more patient and controlled in possession. The powerful running of Rayner combined well with Allen, the latter stinging the keeper's hand. But a hamstring injury curtailed his afternoon and the loss of his direct running was a blow. But it remained one way traffic. Wagman broke clear but spurned the effort, Silver had 3 sights of goal in quick succession but couldn't find a way past the keeper before a lung busting run from his own half by Rayner saw his final strike go narrowly over. He then crossed for Lenchner but he headed just wide before a shot of his own brought out the best from the Wickham number 1.

With the game heading towards extra time there was still only one side asking the questions, but the hosts were dealt a further blow when the Rolls Royce that is Danny Piler landed awkwardly and in some distress. Early indications suggest an ACL injury and we all wish Danny the speediest of recoveries. As the team re-shuffled Wickham worked the ball forward. The first ball was cleared but was returned from outside the box where the flick landed at the feet of one of the two Wickham players literally standing all alone in the 6 yard box. Whilst the finish was smart, the player was yards offside. The ref, 20 yards away and with no linesmen, dallied and seemed to give the offside before changing his mind and awarding the goal amidst the strongest of protestations. Maccabi were incredulous but there was nothing they could do. With barely two minutes remaining they threw the ball forward but couldn't create the chance they needed.

A difficult day with the injuries and a hugely disappointing way to lose. But in reality, with their domination, it's an inward look that is required for the failure to take the semi-final berth that should have been theirs. West Wickham however were dogged and disciplined throughout and earned the victory, and we wish them the very best of luck in the next round.