U14's: Ecclesall Rangers 1 - 4 Swallows
Sunday, October 19, 2008 at 04:27PM 
In todays big game Steve Watson scored the only goal in a victory at Hillsborough for Sheffield Wednesday. :-)
In the OTHER big game at Ecclesall Rangers the Swallows committed themselves professionally, in very difficult conditions to a potentially very difficult Cup Game against a team 2 divisions above them.
The game kicked off in a very strong wind and dark clouds were gathering threatening rain. It was an end to end first half - both teams were defending very well and both teams looked dangerous going forward. With half time approaching no goals were looking likely for either team, until Ecclesall's strong frontman broke through the Swallows defence down the left and placed the ball past the outstretched hands of keeper Marsh.
Its often claimed that a goal just before half time can prove to be a killer blow. Not so for the excellent Swallows this season, who may have been forgiven in season's past for allowing heads to drop. They hit right back, Reece Taylor who had been in great form in this game pushing down the right and striking a hard cross into the centre for Short to smash home a deserved equaliser.
Half Time - Ecclesall Rangers 1-1 Swallows
The second half kicked off in much the same style ast the first, end to end once more but the Swallows did seem to have the edge with the wind now at their backs. Finally the Swallows managed to get the ball in the net, this time with a scrappy goal forced over the line by Matt Denton. The goal was contested hotly by the Ecclesall lads but the ref was well placed to give it.
Denton soon picked up a 3rd, this time from a good clearance by Ecclesall. Curtis Boot's cross found its way to Denton who hit the ball sweetly into the bottom right hand corner.
It was looking like this might be enough but Swallows really took control at this stage and were clearly keen to put any hopes of a revival far from Ecclesalls minds. Reece Taylor made no mistake with the Swallows 4th goal after great work by Sellars down the left.
Full Time - Ecclesall Rangers 1 - 4 Swallows
Man of the Match - Alex Lee
Quote from the Manager: 'The players did very well in difficult conditions today, and special mentions to the players and parents who went to the game, many thanks for your support - Mark