Adders Mens 1sts made it two knockout trophies in 5 years as they completed a record breaking 5-2 victory over Clifton Robinson from Bristol. The team were playing their third final in 6 years and making their second appearance at the home of the 2012 Olympics at Lee Valley in London. Their was also an unexpected availability for the team when William Currie, who is currently travelling around Australia, was transported back courtesy of British Airways, and made his first appearance for the team since February!
With a strong squad of players, which included three sixteen year olds, the Adders went into the game full of confidence and well prepared. Coach, Martin Webb and skipper, Josh Wagg made sure that all of the players were relaxed and ready for what was bound to be a difficult 70 minutes.
The team was also well supported by a full coach load of club and family members who had made the journey from Atherstone and who's voices could be heard above the supporters from their Bristol based opposition.
The game itself got off to a spectacular start as Andrew Currie tapped home the opening goal in the first minute. Bristol started the game but were easily dispossesed and a swift Adders counter attack led to the Adders taking the lead.
Bristol were stunned by the goal and the Adders dominated possession for the next 10 minutes but failed to extend their lead. This proved fatal as Clifton came back and equalised after 11 minutes. Game on!
Half time came with both teams having missed chances with the Adders having slightly more possession but lacking composure in the final third.
The second half was a different story as it all came together for Josh Wagg's team.
Martin Webb scored two goals from short corners within ten minutes of the restart. Will Murphy then made a fantastic penalty save when a dubious penalty was awarded against Matthew Hilton and then Cameron Hobbs made it 4-1 after 42 minutes when he converted a short corner rebound.
Clifton were now totally delated but never gave up as they tried in vain to get back into the game. The Adders defence once again showed its strength and the midfield players displayed effort, determination and skill as the Adders took total control of the game. William Currie thenmade the score 5-1 when he deflected home a well rehearsed short corner, to round off his return to the side.
With the Adders in total control of the game it was Bristol who had the last word, however, in the final minute of the match, as their centre forward deflected a hit into the D past a surprised Will Murphy in goal.
However not long after, the Adders were celebrating victory and applauding their travelling supporters as they completed a lap of honour and then collected their winners medals.