Cups 2003-04

A penalty shoot out decided the winner of the Birmingham FA Sunday Cup after a closely fought affair at County HQ ended 1 apiece, with Wolverhampton-based Ebstree FC ultimately retaining the title for another year.

Austin were first to strike in the 9th minute. Penalty appeals were turned down by Referee Barratt, who instead signalled for a free kick on the edge of the area. It mattered not to Colin Jones whose free kick sailed into the top left corner of the goal.

Instead of pushing for a second goal, it was Ebstree who began to gain the upper hand, but a brave performance from Rob Walker in the Austin goal kept the Longbridge-based side ahead. Even when Joe Williams thought he had scored in the 30th minute, the goal was disallowed and Williams was booked for using his hand.

Simon Hardle eventually equalised five minutes before half time. After making space for himself just inside the Austin penalty area, Hardle shot low and hard leaving Walker stranded.

Both teams failed to convert chances in the second half. Simon Welsh's 55th minute volley went just wide for Austin whilst Hardle saw his shot from the edge of the box rise just over the bar 6 minutes later. Paul Taylor could have won the game for Austin with 8 minutes left, but his volley went inches close of Dan Tipton's upright.

Tipton kept his side in with a chance during extra time, his most vital with just 3 minutes left from a Matthew Bourne attempt - ensuring penalties would be needed.

Mark Tipton and Colin Jones both scored the first, but Austin's Anthony Johnston could not match Andy Brabazon's effort, seeing his spot kick hit the post.

Steve Holden and Graham Ashton both scored for Ebstree, as did Simon Welsh and Matthew Bourne for Austin. Austin's Richard Stocks could have saved the day after he saw Jim Skedgel's effort saved by an impressive Rob Walker, but could only find the woodwork with his fifth and final attempt.