Ross-on-Wye Juniors under 14s took on Bartestree in the final of the Dave Howes Cup at Edgar Street on Sunday, April 24th. Despite being the penultimate game of the day, there was a big crowd in the Merton Street stand.

The excitement was palpable, and heightened by the fact that the squad had made the 12 mile journey together by coach, with their manager Martyn Jones and assistant Matt Perkins. Spirits were high as the Under 14s had only narrowly lost 2-1 on the Wednesday to Bartestree.

Ross had played exceptionally well in the last 15 minutes, and had really given Bartestree something to think about before the big day. The win meant Bartestree had won the league

The boys kicked off at 5 o’clock at Edgar Street, kicking towards the Meadow End, and seemed a little over awed by the occasion.

There wasn’t the fluency that was apparent in the semi final win over Wellington the week before, and unfortunately Ross conceded a goal within the first ten minutes.

The Ross boys were rushing their passes, almost scared of making a mistake or getting caught in possession on the big stage. They rolled their sleeves up and worked hard, but conceded again just before the break. Many of the Bartestree boys are academy players for WBA, Bristol and Hereford and the second goal put any thoughts of a comeback on the backburner.

The boys rallied in the second half and made it hard for Bartestree to play their passing game. However on the hour Bartestree got their third goal and despite much effort, the Ross team never really got back into the game. The game finished 3-0 and regardless of the scoreline the boys had a great day out, and had much to be proud of.

It was capped off by a fantastic reception for the team at The Royal Hotel and the team is grateful to Sally and Matt Perkins for their support.