A hard report to write but, to be fair, Heaton Mersey deserved this victory. Despite arriving late and then setting up an impromptu disco, the dulcet tones of Sam Sparrow, the Beatles and Spandau Ballet inspired them to victory.

We took an early lead through George – it would prove to be the only time that we’d be in front as Heaton Mersey’s midfield simply overpowered us. We looked timid and lacked confidence and despite a 2nd from Eddie we finished Quarter 1 at 3 – 2 down.

We fell foul to too many unnecessary penalties today in a game where we really needed 10 on the pitch to have a chance. Heaton Mersey’s speed caused us problems in the 2nd quarter but Joey in particular worked really hard to keep us in the game. A couple of great saves from Ned and goals from Tom and Sam saw us hit half time trailing a single goal.

As the game progressed we seemed to run out of ideas and, for the first time in the entire season, record a scoreless quarter as we reached ¾ time with a 4 goal deficit. It was a bridge too far for the boys and Heaton Mersey finished with a well-deserved 12 – 7 win.

But we’ll learn from this. We didn’t play anywhere near to where we usually do but we also don’t face teams with Heaton Mersey’s quality that often either. Put it behind you boys – Welwyn and the Manchester Finals to come. Chins up and well done to the boys for the way they applauded Heaton Mersey’s victory. Losing is rubbish but you’ll be better players for it in the end.