Sandgate Arrows 1 - 0 Chiswick Youth (U10 League Cup Final)

Sandgate Arrows completed the double by winning the West Middlesex & Hayes under 10's cup final 1-0 against Chiswick Youth on Sunday afternoon. The match took place in difficult conditions and the style of play was dominated by a very strong wind. Sandgate started the stronger of the two teams and took the lead early in the first half. Ben Forde chased a long ball down the middle and out muscled two defenders before hammering a fierce low shot past the keeper and into the far corner of the net. The Sandgate contingent went wild but this was never going to be an easy match. Both teams had opportunities and Chiswick very nearly equalised after a mix up in the Sandgate defence, just before the break. In the second half Chiswick started strongly. It was only due to some fantastic defending and a great save onto the post by Jayden that Chiswick did not equalise. It turned into a battle of wills and either team might have scored. There was a lot of tension in the last 10 minutes but as is so often the case Sandgate's never say die attitude prevailed yet again. There were raptures from players, officials and supporters alike as the referee blew the final whistle. It should also be said that the referee had a excellent game too. Valiant Chiswick were first to the podium to collect their runners up medals. They received praise and generous applause for the part they played in this close fought match. Sandgate then collected the trophies and medals for the league and cup double. The sound of Liquidator played in the background as the players, officials and supporters shouted "Sandgate" to the well known chorus. The celebration continued throughout the afternoon including some adults who carried on until the early hours of the morning. Coaches Stuart Riglin and Cameron Hesketh were rightly very proud of their team. It was a fitting reward for the hard work put in by all during a very successful season. MOM – Nikhil Wright & Vinnie Osborne