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Photos: Vivan Jayant
James failed to score for the first time in this year’s College Cup, as Vanbrugh put in a diligent defensive display to thwart the tournament favourites.
With Alcuin drawing a blank in the 2pm match, James knew before kick-off that they would already finish top of Group 2, while Vanbrugh were forced to accept a Plate position.
The fact there was nothing left to play for set the tone for a somewhat lukewarm affair as neither ‘keeper was seriously tested throughout.
Even star man Tom Clarke was rather subdued, thanks in large part to excellent work by centre backs Alex Habeck and Charles Frobisher, who consistently made vital interceptions and gave the striker hardly any time on the ball.
The first opportunity of the match fell to a Vanbrugh player, however, as Henry Cust blasted a speculative half-volley just wide of the post from around 25 yards.
James were holding more possession, but Tom Williams in the Vanbrugh defence was largely untroubled as the Vanbrugh defence, plus the hard-working Dan Shepherd in midfield, held firm.
A dangerous, goal-bound volley from Freddy Ferrao was superbly blocked by Habeck out for a corner.
Then James Davies squandered a superb chance after profiting from rare Vanbrugh confusion, slicing his shot high and wide, before Clarke dragged a similar chance wide of the far post after Richard Baxter’s piece of vision.
Two tame Clarke free kicks, one of which went harmlessly wide and the other easily saved by Williams, capped a disappointing first period.
James failed to increase the pressure after the restart, and an attempted cross from Bainbridge, tipped over by Wililiams, was the real save the ‘keeper had to make.
Clarke tried his luck again from a free kick which clipped the outside of the post, although Williams probably had it covered.
Afterwards, James captain Richard Baxter said: “I’m not too concerned we didn’t win, I’m still very happy we’ve got through and hopefully we’ll improve next week.”
A delighted Paul O’Beirne commented: “I’m very pleased with the team spirit and determination; it was the essence of Vanbrugh. On that performance, we’ll do well in the Plate.”
Vision MOTM: Alex Habeck