This is the latest in a series of weekly updates focusing on our new U21s side, courtesy of Matt Tennant…
“Bromsgrove Sporting’s U21s have flown through to the semi-finals of the Challenge Bowl after bagging a 0-3 win against Coventry United U21s.
Both sides struggled to get the opener, with a tight first half ending goaless. But it was Bromsgrove who finally found the breakthrough, with George Gillon converting a penalty to give the visitors the lead.
That gave Bromsgrove the momentum to push forward, leading to a slick finish from Zak Parr off the back of an impressive Lewis Doyle free kick.
Sporting maintained the intensity before being gifted another penalty. Gillon stepped up once again and, despite having his penalty saved, he buried the rebound to book Bromsgrove a spot in the semi-finals.
“Great result away in the quarter finals for the team against Coventry United, taking the win against a strong and direct team to book our place in the next round,” said U21s joint manager, Mark Reeve.
Fellow joint-manager, Stuart Carson, said: “After two weeks off, you do wonder how the lads would start the game, but all credit to the whole group, as they had trained really well over the break and started on the front foot.
“Overall, it was a strong performance from everyone and we felt we never really looked in any trouble throughout, although Coventry United always give you a game and are great hosts.
“Many thanks to everyone who travelled to Coventry, as your support was very much appreciated.”
Now, Bromsgrove’s U21s turn their attention to the semi-finals, with a quick turnaround to prepare for Wednesday night’s clash against fellow title challengers, Stourbridge U21s.
Stourbridge are the only side to beat Sporting’s U21s more than once this season.
The South Division League winners have had an incredibly successful season so far, topping the league with 41 points, recording only one loss out of 16 games.
They have also been dominating the Challenge Bowl, with six wins and one draw in the competition so far, establishing them as a serious opponent to the rest of the field.
Bromsgrove, however, narrowly trump Stourbridge’s Bowl stats, by boasting a 100% win rate in their seven games during the competition.
This enduring form was also reflected in their heroic third place league finish, after Sporting battled a skilled Bedworth United unit to the end for a podium position, laying down a firm marker in their debut season.
“The semi finals take place on Wednesday against a strong Stourbridge team, and we are relishing the challenge to go head to head once again,” said Mark.
Stuart added: “Any support on Wednesday would be great for the boys, as we look to give it one big push.
“The lads are looking forward to the challenge and to reach the final would reward all their efforts this season.”
Bromsgrove Sporting U21s will face Stourbridge U21s at the Priory 3G Football Complex on Wednesday 21st May with a late 19:15 PM kick off.
