Sporting JLGB advanced to the third round of the Shonn Trophy following a stirring comeback as they defeated South Manchester Maccabi 2nd 4-2.

Maccabi went 2-0 up early through two goals from Jake Feinstein, one slotted home following a through ball as their defence went to sleep, and another after they failed to pick him up at a corner, allowing him to head home with ease.

Despite the commanding lead, it was a fairly balanced game, with both sides having periods of possession, and it was not too long until JLGB were back in the game, as Rafi Bloom went on a run before being taken down in the penalty area, before slotting home the penalty himself. Again Bloom made the difference when he levelled the game before half time, running into the area before managing to stay on his feet despite being under pressure from the Maccabi defence, to hook the ball home.

In the second half Sporting came out the better side, and took control of the game as they looked to turn the screw. After some concerted pressure, Bloom was again involved, hitting a fierce free kick 25 yards out which was saved, but fell invitingly for Jared Cohen to sweep home and put Sporting ahead.

Bloom soon completed his hat-trick, taking the ball past a defender before firing into the bottom corner of the Maccabi net. There was no way back for the home side, who were unable to get any control over the game as it wore on, allowing Gavin Sharpe’s side to book their place in the next round to his delight, leaving him in bullish mood.

“Saul Davies and Aaron Englander were rock solid, though I thought the whole team had a good team performance. In my opinion teams should be very worried to play us because in spite of a slow start we have gelled well and are a force in the MJSL. We should at least win a cup and force our way up the table.”