Quedgeley Reserves put up the most resilient of performances to beat The Beeches away from home in the County Cup Quarter Final.

The Beeches played wonderful football, short passing across the pitch that was good to watch. But Quedgeley did not get distracted and defended superbly giving the home side no space in the final third. The home team dominated the early stages as Quedgeley had to defend numerous corners in a row. But the defence stood firm without conceding.

Quedgeley looked dangerous on the counter attack, with Steve Norwood going close on his first start for the team. And it was Quedgeley who took the lead in spectacular fashion. The Beeches passed the ball around in defence but as the ball entered midfield Jordan Rouse intercepted with his first touch and shot with his second on the half volley, sending the ball into the top corner and clipping the underside of the crossbar from 30 yards, goal of the season by a mile and a great occasion to fit it.

To the home team’s credit, they kept playing the same way and did not give up on the possession football. But Quedgeley looked comfortable as half time came and went. The second half had the same pattern as the first with The Beeches having 75% of the ball but once again it was Quedgeley who scored on the counter attack. A long pass found the run of Chris Gooch who weaved in and out before chipping the goalkeeper with what seems to be his trademark cross turn shot.

Wanderers sat back after this and The Beeches eventually got a deserved goal with a few minutes left to play. But the away side hung on to book their place in the County Cup Semi Finals.

Overall it was a top class, organised performance against a very good footballing side. A Special mention for Steve Norwood and Chris Gooch for their defensive work up front. Everyone stayed disciplined and kept focus even when things weren’t going their way.

Man of the Match: Jordan Rouse

Team:

GK – T. Kaye
LB – T. Hughes
CB – S. Moroney
CB – P. Drew
RB – L. Kay
RM – C. Rigby
CM – J. Rouse
CM – P. Bull
LM – E. King
ST – S. Norwood
ST – C. Gooch

Subs

W. Park (Norwood 65’)
A. McCatty (Moroney 60’)