Saturday 10th November 2012 @ Wolverhampton Wanderers FC Training Ground
Group A: Dudley and Brierley Hill, Kings Norton, Wolverhampton, Harborne
Group B: Erdington and Saltley, South Birmingham, Solihul, Sutton Coldfield
On a beautiful autumnal morning in Wolverhampton, Erdington and Saltley set off on yet another adventure. This time round they were hoping to win the West Midlands 7-a-side Championships after coming so close in the Brummie version of the 7-a-side game earlier in the season.
Starting off against early favourites Solihul, The Ton were determined to send out a message to the other teams, especially as a few old scars were still healing following the 5-1 defeat to Solihul in September. In a close game, The Ton probably had the better of the first period, coming close on two or three occasions. However, Solihul stepped up their game during the second half and snatched the three points courtesy of a slice of luck (bad luck if you’re a fan of The Ton!) A hopeful long ball bounced between two Erdington and Saltley defenders before the lively DJ became the first to react, smashing a close range shot away.
Next up for The Ton was local neighbours Sutton Coldfield. The ever skilful Sutton caused us a few problems, most of which came from the magic left foot of Tye. The Ton dug deep and took the lead after Jayden broke down the right before sending over a sweet cross for the live wire Callum to tuck away. In another close game, Sutton levelled before half time and that is the way it finished.
With one point on the board and other scores going our way, The Ton were faced with a simple equation…win and progress through to the semis. South Birmingham were faced with the same equation, hence an exceptionally tough game was expected. This is how it turned out. Despite throwing everything at South Birmingham, The Ton couldn’t make the break through and had to settle for another point. The most memorable moment of the game came when Alex pulled off one of the greatest ever saves seen in district football. Diving full stretch to his left, Mr Tame managed to tip a thunderous shot around his post for a corner. Joe Hart would be wise to watch the footage of this save!
Overall everyone of the eight lion hearts should be immensely proud of their efforts this morning. With a slice of luck we could have lifted the trophy. Such is life! Nevertheless I enjoyed every minute of this morning and can’t wait for next week! What a team! What a great bunch of lads!
Over the next five weeks it’s back to the 11-a-side format of the game and hopefully a few wins!
Team: Alex T, Sahib, Jayden, Sam, Callum, Ellis-Jay, Josh S, Trey
Ref’s M.O.M: Alex T
Up the Ton!
Erdington and Saltley Primary Schools' FA 