Strong Defence of County Crown
16th October 2000
FA County Youth Cup - Second Round
Northumberland FA 0 - 0 Birmingham FA
After Extra Time
Replay: Saturday 4th November - 2pm, Ray Hall Lane, Great Barr.
The Birmingham County Youth team earned a replay in their defence of the FA County Youth Cup after a 0-0 draw with Northumberland on Saturday, but have Goalkeeper Elliot Richards to thank for their second chance.
The Hednesford Town 'keeper kept his side in the competition by saving a penalty in the 88th minute of normal time, before a dramatic save from Northumberland's Steven Sinclair's shot in extra time. This came after Birmingham failed to capitalise on chances throughout the first half.
After 20 minutes, Bedworth Town's Phil Garner beat the Northerners' defence only to see his cross scrambled away by the home side. The Northumberland defence were called into action soon after, when Evesham's James Brown was fouled 25 yards out - Andy Bowater's resulting free kick well saved by the 'keeper.
The pressure continued from Birmingham throughout the first half, with Smith and Morris seeing their efforts go just wide and another by Morris cleared off the line.
After knocking out last year's semi-finalists in the previous round, Northumberland could sense another scalp, and raised their efforts in the second half. However, the Birmingham defence of Morris, Cooper, Picknell, Gourlay and Garner held firm into Extra Time, with the penalty save making sure the two teams would have to meet again.
"We have our back five and our 'keeper to thank for the fact we have another shot at Northumberland," said Team Spokesman, Steve Poole. "But even despite the lack of goals, it was good to see the lads up front having some good scoring opportunities.
"We know what to expect from the replay now, and it won't be easy," added Poole. "Perhaps more importantly though, we know what we need to do to get the win."
The replay takes place on Saturday 4th November, kick off 2pm at County FA Headquarters, Ray Hall Lane, Great Barr, Birmingham.