Rye Town 3 Sidley 2
In a cup semi-final there is only one thing that matters and that is winning the game and that’s exactly what Rye Town Football Club first team did on Saturday, March 9. They found a way and are now in the Macron Cup final. They have achieved this over successive years.
Pre-match discussion was based on what was their biggest threat and what did they have to do to combat their opponent’s strengths. It was decided that there was need for man-to-man midfield. Once this was established when the game commenced they started to play some very good football.
Shane Ridgers takes up the story, “Tom Barlow was class at left wing back keeping things simple but effective. We took the lead through Dan being in the right place at the right time following in after Hesmer’s shot was tipped on to the crossbar. 1-0. Our second goal was an insane show of individual brilliance, Charlie picked the ball up just inside Sidley’s half already recognising the goalkeeper off his line to strike with vengeance into the net, words do not give this goal credit I tell you. 2-0.
“We did however take our foot off the pedal for a period, maybe thinking the game was already won. I’m unsure, but we let Sidley back in through a penalty after losing possession on the edge of our box. 2-1. The reaction was class, stamping our authority back in the game with another well-taken goal , Bailo picking the ball up in a good area feeding Hes who in slow motion found the net passed the oncoming goalkeeper. 3-1.
“Half-time was all about praise , Barney for defending, the three goals for strikes and forward runs a very positive start to the match. In the second half Sidley in fairness pegged us back with few chances. Barney in particular missing from two yards and Dan having one saved off the line were our big chances. We conceded from a set piece, following a Tony handball. 3-2.
“Sidley went on to hit the post twice we rode our luck but that’s what class teams do they find a way to win. The final here we come.”
Barney Osbourn was man of the match.
Rye Reserves also played and won. A good day for Rye football.
Rye Reserves 6️ Wadhurst 2
Goal scorers Billy Blackford 2, Taylor Field 2, Ollie Barrow 1, Lennon Powell 1
Men of the Match Billy Blackford and Craig Pierce
Image Credits: Kt bruce , Rye Town Football Club .