READING’S LATE GOALS SNATCH

by Pat Rowley (17.5.2009)

Reading, the English League runners-up, scored twice in a minute with three minutes left on the clock to beat Beeston, the hosts and holders,
3-1 in the final of the English Cup at a crowded Nottingham Highfields.

Their decisive goals came against the run of play. Reading often had to withstand sustained pressure. Adam Dixon and Ali Wilson dominated the midfield for Beeston and worked cleverly and at speed to create openings.

It was fortunate for Reading that former England goalkeeper Nick Brothers was at the top of his form. He made crucial saves.

Experienced Reading had led for most of the game. Richard Mantell, also solid as a rock in the Reading defence, put away his second penalty corner on the quarter hour, beating George Pinner with a flicked shot.

Beeston’s efforts were not rewarded until the 57th minute when Dixon won a penalty for them which was converted by Chris Seddon. The Beeston striker sent Brothers the wrong way.

A fine reverse stick shot by Warren DSouza was the decisive blow to Beeston, and that was followed immediately with a well-taken goal by
Jon Codling, one of Reading’s youngsters.

Reading’s success meant they equalled Southgate’s record of claiming the trophy seven times.

Reading narrowly failed to achieve an unprecedented cup double. Their women’s team, just promoted to the premier league and in their first
final, were beaten 2-1 by Bowdon Hightown, the premier champions.

Each side scored from a free hit. Fay Nash put Bowdon ahead with a smart deflection after 19 minutes. Becky Odlin got the faintest of
touches three minutes into the second half.

Bowdon were quickly ahead again as England’s Jo Ellis turned in a centre by Annalisa Bishop. Reading who competed well , missed a great
chance to take the match to extra time almost on the final whistle.

copy for Sunday Express 17.5.2009