Brady Maccabi conquer Lions to lift Masters League title

First-half goals from Paul Lenchner for Lions and Ashley Davidson for Brady saw the teams level at the interval.

The second half proved no more decisive, as Mark Wagman put Brady ahead, only for Lions to equalise through a Bradley Lazarus penalty.

With the scores level after 90 minutes, the rules dictated that the arch rivals should go immediately to penalties, but such is the friendly nature of Maccabi Masters football that both teams suggested that rivalries be set aside and the title be shared.

However, rules are rules, and penalties ensued, with Brady Maccabi edging it 4-3 through successful spot-kicks from Laurence Beck, Jonathan Cohen, Gavin Sherman and Scott Ansher, confirming their status as league champions.

Brady captain Gavin Sherman duly received the league trophy from retiring MMFL chairman, Stuart Lustigman, who is stepping down after creating the league back in 1999 and has been at the helm for the 20 seasons since then.

Meanwhile, St John’s Wood Tigers and Temple Fortune met in their final league game, and also drew 2-2.

Jason Bentley scored twice for Tigers, and Robert Botkai, celebrating his 300th appearance, and an own goal earning a point for Temple Fortune.

RESULTS

LEAGUE TITLE PLAY-OFF

Brady Maccabi 2 Maccabi London Lions 2 (Brady won 4-3 on penalties)

MACCABI MASTERS FOOTBALL LEAGUE

St John's Wood Tigers 2 Temple Fortune 2

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TABLE

1. Brady Maccabi Pl. 16, W. 15, Pts. 45 (CHAMPIONS)

2. Maccabi London Lions Pl. 16, W. 15, Pts. 45

3. EHRS Stonegrove Pl. 16, W. 9, Pts. 30