TONY COHEN MEMORIAL CUP FINAL
PRESTFIELD 1 MACCABI MANCHESTER BLUE 3
With Prestfield coming into this match on the back of impressive league wins and their semi-final victory over Leeds, Maccabi Blue were mindful not to under-estimate their opponents, whom they had beaten twice previously this season.
The Blues started in the best possible way with a goal in under five minutes as a corner was half-cleared, Charlie Simpson hit a stunning volley into the bottom corner giving Jordan Warents no chance in the Prestfield goal.
Maccabi controlled proceedings at West Didsbury and Chorlton AFC for the next half hour as Prestfield struggled to get a foothold so it was no surprise when Nathan Pitt following a driving run managed to notch his team's second goal on 35 minutes.
Prestfield reacted well and came more into the game before half-time which they hoped would continue after the break.
It certainly became a better contest in the second half, although just before the hour, Max Rose made it 3-0 from a corner which sealed the win.
To their credit, Prestfield kept going and threatened periodically and reaped their reward with a late consolation with Johnny Franks stabbing home in the last 10 minutes which meant a few uncomfortable moments for Maccabi to see out.
A final score of 3-1 meant that Mark Mann accepted the Tony Cohen Memorial Trophy from our sponsors to put the Maccabi Blue name on the trophy as the 49th winner. Nathan Pitt was awarded man of the match and appreciation was given to officials, Phil Rigby (ref), John Porter, Mike Cohen and Allan Black. Four cautions were noted on the night for foul tackles.
Sunday sees the Harold Feldman Cup final, also at this venue, kick-off 11am with Haroldeans taking on Leeds Maccabi.
The Maccabi GB Peter Morrison National Trophy final follows at 3pm which involves South Manchester Sports Club and North London Raiders A.
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