PETER MORRISON TROPHY ROUND ONE
SCRABBLE FC 0 MACCABI LONDON LIONS UNDER-21's 1
Ray Abrahams admits he had no complaints after a late strike from Josh Burns earned Lions U21's a famous win over Scrabble FC.
Following a strong start in the league, the young lions were keen to impress in the prestigious Peter Morrison Trophy. With 12 boys to chose from and an average age of 17, the game was sure to be a learning curve.
The first 30 minutes was a battle of styles, as Lions looked most threatening when keeping possession, whilst Scrabble had two or three glorious chances to score from set-pieces.
The home side's aerial presence was a true test, one that was overcome by the tenacious pairing of young Nathan Anders and more experienced partner Jackson, both of whom played a key part in the rare feat of a Sunday morning clean sheet
As the half drew to a close, it became clear that one moment was likely to be decisive in a fiercely competitive game.
The second half ticked on and the young legs of Lions took control. Following two splendid saves and a commanding performance from Reuben Rabstein, Lions began dominating possession and securing a constant territorial advantage.
The breakthrough came in the 80th minute. Following good play from Mattey, the ball fell to Kyte's feet, he unselfishly squared to 16-year-old Burns who had the composure to whip the ball past Ben Law. There was a sense of elation and relief in the Lions camp as they secured a deserved lead.
The young side controlled the final 10 minutes and saw out a fine result that included top performances across the pitch.
The tireless work of coach Mark Damici has instilled a confidence and quality within this young side who continue to improve
Scrabble boss Ray Abrahams told JC Sport: "Both sides battled hard and cancelled each other out in the midfield area but it was always going to be decided by an odd goal and they took their chance well.
"We had three or four good chances during the game to put them out of site but it wasn't to be our day and I couldn't have asked for more effort than the boys put in today. It was a real battle especially in the midfield area.
"It's disappointing to have gone out so early in this competition but we now have to dust ourselves down and get back to winning ways in the league next week when we go to Rowley Lane.
"Good luck to the Lions Under 21's in the next round. They are a young side and will pose a few problems for whoever they are drawn against next time.
"We've got some important games coming up in the next few weeks and we will make sure we show a positive reaction to today's defeat in our next game."
