The County Files |
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Birmingham will have to overcome tough opposition in the shape of Nottingham FA if they are to make it three consecutive appearances in the prestigious FA County Youth Cup Final. The Midlanders came away with a tremendous 2-1 victory against Middlesex at the weekend to secure their place in the final four. Manni Sandhu capitalised on a fumbled punch from the Middlesex ‘Keeper to score his first goal for the County in the 2nd minute of the game. The Nuneaton Borough youngster launched a looping header after Anthony Hall’s effort was only half cleared by Harris. With the wind becoming an increasing factor, it was vital that Birmingham took full advantage in the first half before the change in ends gave Middlesex the upper hand. Two minutes before the break they did – in spectacular style. After launching several testing corners throughout the first period, another Craig Hancox set piece was half cleared to Great Barr Celtic HN’s Dean Allmark. He turned and rifled a tremendous shot from twenty yards that Harris never saw, putting Birmingham 2-0 up at the half. The predicted Middlesex second half onslaught was abated by a resolute Birmingham back three of Hall (North Birmingham College), Sandhu (Nuneaton Borough) and Khela (Kidderminster Harriers). However, the home side got back into the game when Hall was penalilsed for a foul on Hendry in the box – O’Meara scoring from the penalty. A nervous 20 minutes of time was played out with Birmingham in no mood to lose the lead they had fought so hard for. Hopeful balls from Middlesex in the final 10 minutes and 5 additional minutes of injury time were staunchly defended by Birmingham. “The whole squad deserves praise for the professional way in which they conducted themselves,” said Team Spokesperson, Steve Poole. “Our next game against Staffordshire in the Midland Counties Youth Championship on Sunday 17th February will be a fantastic way to prepare for the semis of the cup as a lot rides on the fixture – we could secure the title there and then.” |