HAROLD FELDMAN MEMORIAL TROPHY
HAROLDEANS 6 SOUTH MANCHESTER SPORTS 2nd 0
Whilst the scoreline suggests a very easy victory for the reigning MJSL league champions, the first hour proved a close encounter, although South Manchester 2nd, for all their endeavour, rarely threatened the rearguard of Haroldeans with any serious intent.
After a few early tussles, Max Barnett opened the scoring for the Merseysiders easily tucking home on 12 minutes.
Haroldeans managed to hit the bar and have a goal ruled out for offside over the course of the rest of the first half. South Manchester had a few long shots but found the Liverpool midfield and defence difficult to penetrate.
A second goal for Haroldeans was always going to be an important point in the match, and it came 12 minutes into the second half. With South Manchester stretched, Adam Shiffman’s cleanly struck shot effectively ended the game as a contest.
South moved things around, keeper Mike Herz had come out of nets to play outfield but a late lunge saw him receive a red card from referee Elliot Shiers.
With 13 minutes to go, it remained 2-0 but a Zack Goldsmith corner was fumbled home by the South custodian and this seemed to open the floodgates, Eden Harris slotted home number four on 79 minutes and Taylor Moss converted another opportunity with three minutes remaining.
There was still time for Barnett to claim his second goal deep into added time. four South players received cautions; Mark Collins, Noah Maddison, Ethan Isaacs and David Searle.
South Manchester can be praised for their relentless spirit and important to remember they managed to beat their own 1st team in the semi-finals which very few teams have been able to do this season.
Haroldeans were expected to win and lived up to their favourites tag albeit the goals took their time coming with four in the last quarter of an hour.
This was the one cup that Haroldeans missed out on last season so the first leg of the domestic treble has been safely put to bed, bigger tests are ahead including a National Cup Final, a Shonn Trophy final and the last few league matches as they attempt to retain their league champions status.
