A resilient second-half performance from Alcuin 3rds helped record their first ever College Cup victory at the expense of a spirited Derwent 5ths side.
Dan Braham put Derwent ahead with a looping header before Ben Bugeja powered in a leveller direct from a 25-yard free kick.
After the break, a George Brough double – both wonderful strikes – sealed the victory for Alcuin, which means they will play either Langwith 2nds or James 4ths in the second semi-final of the Vase next week.
A distinct difference in tactics was apparent from the off as Derwent, the first 5ths side to qualify for the Vase in York’s college football history, comfortably knocked the ball round the pitch with each player taking a few touches before passing it on, in no real rush to search for an opening. Alcuin, meanwhile, focused much more on pace and their own attacking threat, with players flocking forward each time a man in red and black was to pick up the ball.
An optimistic forty-yard effort from Sam Bentham flew just wide – of the Psychology block – before Bugeja brought a solid save out of Sidley.
It was, however, the more conservative and defensive side that drew first blood. A long throw-in from the left hand side level with the Alcuin penalty area fell perfectly for Dan Braham, who expertly guided his header above and beyond Michael Thurloway in the Alcuin goal.
Their advantage didn’t seem to quite give Derwent the edge, however, as the goal shook Alcuin into action. And the lead lasted no more than six minutes, with Bugeja winning a free 20 yards from goal. He took it himself, striking the ball perfectly as it flew over the wall, past Sidley and into the net.
It should have been two goals in as many minutes for Alcuin but Dylan Chambers missed a close-range header when it looked easier to score; Bugeja’s cross sublime but the finish non-existent.
It meant the sides went into the break level, but Alcuin had looked the stronger after their leveller. And they proved too strong for their opponents in the second period, justly taking the lead soon after the re-start.
Ben Bugeja’s match-winning performance again played a crucial role, with the playmaker feeding Brough on the edge of the penalty area. Brough took the ball past the advancing goalkeeper and neatly slotted home, in spite of Robin Hartley’s last-stitch attempts to clear.
Derwent rarely troubled the Alcuin defence after that, with the 3rds side more comfortable and less frantic. And Brough netted again in rather similar fashion to his first; with Brough running through and expertly lobbing Sidley to seal the victory.
And it might have been four when Nick Bearn unintentionally rifled a clearance towards his own goal, saved only by Sidley’s outstretched arms.
The result puts Alcuin 3rds – never before to win a College Cup match – into the Vase semi-finals, and will play either Langwith 2nds or James 4ths.
Would’ve like to see you bury that header