Old Wykehamist Football Club

1st XI knocked out of Arthur Dunn Cup by Old Radleians

An extra-untimely knockout blow

Following several postponements and efforts to rearrange this game, the Old Woks faced Radley for the second time this season with the prospect of a cup quarter-final spot on offer. Rumours that this could bring about some valuable media coverage and healthy financial rewards proved unfounded as the Old Woks suffered defeat, when it looked as if only victory could be possible.

The pitch was narrow, the refereeing consistently inconsistent and Radley had even roped in one of Neale’s university goalkeeping understudies. In fairly boggy conditions this was never going to be a classic cup-tie and both teams looked very dangerous from set pieces, especially on such a small pitch which accentuated the Delap-esque talents of Walters and White.

After a bright start, Masefield coolly slotted in the opener and it was clear that the next goal would be a crucial one. Unfortunately this went to Radley and worse was yet to come. Jack Merriott, bullish in midfield, suffered a nasty head injury and was forced off in search of Chelsea and Westminster. Another Radley goal followed before Spalton levelled, stabbing home perfectly to draw the Woks level and at full time, the game was delicately poised at 2-2. Extra-time loomed and it was clear that the physical battle that had seen strong, committed passion all over the field would be superseded by mental strength and concentration.

And so came the knockout blow... heartbreak, when with only a few minutes of extra-time remaining, a swift Radley counter attack led to the winner. A firm strike from inside the left channel squeezed itself past the magnificently-performing Neale, who pulled off some fine saves throughout the game. Earlier in the season, Radley stole a draw from fortress BD in the league and somehow this game also got away. A good cup run always promotes confidence, however the main objective is to win the league and more quality and decisiveness will be needed if that goal is to be achieved.