Churchill out in most cruel way

CHURCHILL United bowed out of the league knock-out cup on penalties after failing to make their dominance count in 120 minutes.

The students of UUC had more possession in the first half as they played into the breeze. They managed to keep Churchill penned into their own half without forcing a save.

After the first twenty five minutes Churchill began to grow in confidence and had a goal chalked off for offside. Sean McCabe saw his header go just wide from a Gary Simpson free kick.

In the second half Churchill had the advantage of playing with the wind on their backs. They controlled possession for the entire course of the half but failed to make their superior possession pay.

Brian Devine had three strikes from outside the box, all struck well but all straight at the UUC keeper. Churchill did muster a number of chances to break the deadlock but couldn't manage to produce a goal, taking the game to extra-time.

Extra-time followed a similar pattern as Coleraine had more of the ball in the first half. The students forced the Churchill keeper into action with a fine save to his right to keep his side in the game by tipping the ball over the bar.

In the second period of added time Churchill failed to test the UUC goalkeeper. The game was to be decided in tension and drama from the penalty spot.

Both teams missed one of the first four penalties, essentially taking it to sudden death. Coleraine missed the fifth penalty so Churchill skipper Simpson had the chance to decide matters. The UUC goalkeeper pulled off a good save and the shootout went into sudden death proper.

Coleraine scored their penalty and Simon Morrow's effort was saved. Churchill were knocked out and UUC continued to the next round.

Churchill will be hosting a Quiz Night at Brigade Cricket Club this Saturday at 8pm with everyone welcome. Entry costs 5 per player with team limited to a maximum of 4. There will be be spot prizes and a light supper provided.