Final Awaits After Dramatic Comeback

Buckingham Athletic's Under 18’s left it late once again to make their mark on the Berks and Bucks county cup. After a late equaliser against Beaconsfield saw them go on to win on penalties. This time it was Holmer Green who were the victims, with Buckingham coming from 3-1 down to win 4-3 right at the death. It is starting to seem normal for them to come from behind in games after some impressive comebacks this season. They now have a chance to go all the way.

Buckingham seemed to have control of the game for a lot of periods and played the ball around in some smart build ups. The chances just were not coming though as a lot of their shots came from outside of the box when looking to break the deadlock. With a lot of bodies being committed to try and open the scoring, they found themselves a goal down instead when Holmer Green broke down the left and converted from the near post.

The lead lasted only a few minutes. Athletic earned a free kick just inside the opposition half and Jamie Sylvester’s ball was nodded on to Geraint Minney, whose ball across couldn't be met, however numerous ricochets led to Jordan Tavener poking home from close range. The score stayed at 1-1 until half time where it was still wide open.

Sylvester shaping up to execute a bicycle kick

The second half started awfully for Buckingham as they found themselves 3-1 down in the first ten minutes. Goals from a set piece and then some good work from a Holmer Green winger put them two ahead with just over half an hour to play. The game was still in sight for Buckingham though, who have made a name for themselves for turnarounds. Nathan Tshikuna found the first goal back when his delightful free kick nestled into the top corner and couldn't be kept out by the keeper.

Sylvester took centre stage to save Buckingham in the last 15 minutes as his first goal was sublime when he took it past a few players and struck the ball sensationally over the keeper from 30 yards. It seemed to be going to penalties as well, due to their being no extra time, , even convincing the coaches of the prospect when they left only two defenders on the pitch in order to have their best penalty takers on the pitch. It wouldn't needed though as when a corner couldn't be cleared I the final seconds of the game, Sylvester produced an outstanding bicycle kick to seal the game and see Buckingham into the final of the cup.

They will face Mursley in the final in March, whilst their attentions turn back to the allied counties central division in pursuit of the title.

Athletic celebrate after Sylvester's last minute winner