ROSS Juniors U10s lost to Leominster Colts in the semi-final of the Mailes cup on Saturday despite a spirited second half display.

Leominster got off to a good start and soon took an early lead through a well struck shot that followed some good fortune. From a Ross corner kick Leominster cleared the ball into the Ross half but Bill got to the ball first only to see his clearance strike an opponent and bounce towards the goal.

Roo made a vital block and then a great save to keep Leominster out but he couldn’t do anything about their second goal after Leominster were awarded a penalty.

The best chance to score for Ross fell to top goal scorer Eddie as he got the better of his opponent and shot from 10 yards out only to see the keeper make the save. As half time approached Leominster threatened again but Bill was equal to it and cleared the danger.

It was a scrappy half generally and Leominster definitely shaded it but the Ross coaches felt the game was not lost.

Early in the second half Harvey had two chances to score but one went wide and the other was well saved. Ross were dominating the midfield and Leominster were reduced to long range shots which Roo dealt with comfortably in the Ross goal. The visitors continued to create the better chances and when JT crossed the ball into the penalty area Jake saw his shot saved and so did Eddie as he followed up.

Time was ticking away but another free kick from Bill threatened the Leominster goal but he couldn’t turn it into the net. Ross finally made the breakthrough with Jake hitting a fine strike which left the Leominster keeper with no chance. Although Ross dominated the game at the end, Leominster hung on to reach the Edgar St final.

The Ross boys were applauded off the pitch by the brilliant travelling support and can be proud of their efforts against one of the top teams in the HJFL. Jake Hedges was Man of the Match for his hard work and great team play.