South Bucks Cup Quarter Finals, Tuesday 17 March

Gateway played local rivals Great Missenden in this round of the cup in a battle to see who would progress to the semi-finals. In the earlier League fixture, it had been honours even with a 2-2 result so the boys were expecting another tough encounter.

It was Missenden that started brighter pushing Gateway back with some neat passing moves down the wings but Freddie B, goalkeeper and his defence stood firm. After five minutes of pressure it was Gateway’s turn to push forward and they mounted a string of threatening attacks. James M came close with a skilful run beating several defenders only to see his shot saved by their keeper. Zach R was busy closing play down, upfront, and was unlucky not to break though on several occasions.

In the second half, Great Missenden had the better of the play and Gateway were pressed back into their half having to play counter attacking football. After 30 minutes of play with the ball bouncing around the Gateway area, Missenden fired home from 3 metres to take the lead.

The game remain tight with a few chances at either end. Missenden might have gone further ahead had the referee seen a handball, but luckily play continued. Gateway may have snatched a late equaliser but the ball was deflected past the post for a corner. Missenden held on to their lead for a well deserved victory and Gateway were left knowing they had played well but nursing an injured pride. HJ

Squad: Freddie B, Jack W, Alex P, Cormac N, Dylan B, Joe N, Jack W, James M and Zach R