Launton Under 10s triumph in Knockout Cup

Knock Out Cup Final – 4 March 2023

Launton U10s welcomed Didcot Casuals to the village for a highly anticipated game with both teams at the top of their game. The anticipation brought lots of nerves and excitement, and this was just from the spectators, parents, and coaches.

All of the players took the game in their stride and the first half saw Launton scoring early and taking the lead. However, this lead was short lived as Didcot quickly broke from their half, finding the equaliser. A lesser team could have had their confidence knocked, but not Launton. This was the spur that was needed to change gear and push even harder. This was rewarded with a goal minutes later and a further one just before the half time whistle.

Half time: Launton 3 –Didcot Casuals 1

With a strong start to the second half Launton managed to squeeze another goal past the Didcot keeper. This saw Launton with a strong lead of 4-1. But this success was short lived as Didcot Casuals are renowned for their ability to dig deep and come back at teams, and this is exactly what they did. Within 15 minutes three more goals were conceded by Launton. After a few changes the final whistle was blown at 4-4.

A team talk of all team talks was required, all those nerves and doubts were turned into excitement and passion. Both teams had a good first half of extra time where each team cancelled the efforts of the other, and no goals were scored. The second half started with both sets of coaches thinking the game was going to dreaded penalties. However, Launton managed to break through the Didcot defence and slipped the ball under their goalie. Didcot threw everything they had in the dying minutes, but the Launton defence and goalie stood strong denying them the chance to take the game to penalties.

Final score: Launton 5 – Didcot Casuals 4

What a final! With both teams playing brilliantly, but Launton managing to find that little extra allowing them to lift the winning trophy at the end of the day. Well done Launton for a magnificent performance from all.

The front cover of this issue shows the team huddle at the end of the match as they realise they have won, and the centre spread on pages 22-23 (below) captures the excitement of the game.

page 22 - and the first page of the photo spread

Photos and design by Matt Hill

Page 23 - and the second page of the photo spread

Photos and design by Matt Hill

The front cover shows the celebration huddle for the Launton Under 10s Team after winning the Knock Out Cup after playing a full match and extra time. See the match report on page 8, and the centre pages (22-23) for a photo spread.

Cover designed by Matt Hill