It’s astonishing to think that Crowle United Reserves’ last Cup semi-final was in January 1996, writes Gareth Parkin.
Having already beaten their opponents, Brigg Servicemen Reserves, 1-0 and 3-0 in the league this season, the players in the away dressing room were buoyant before taking the field but their mood sank as BSR showed that they were just as keen to get their hands on the Geg McGowan Trophy this year.
Brigg began more strongly than Crowle, creating a couple of chances before taking the lead when a midfielder ran into space on 12 minutes and found the bottom corner.
The Keys looked most dangerous from set pieces in the first half with a string of corners giving them a chance of equalising through the aerial route.
Darren Clark had a powerful header well saved by BSR’s ‘keeper but Matthew Marshall’s delicately-placed effort glanced into the far corner to bring the teams level on 25 minutes.
Two quick goals settled the game 3-1 and ended Keys’ interest in the McGowan silverware.
After half an hour, Brigg made a break on their left wing and drove a low shot into the far corner of Sam Thirkell’s goal.
Five minutes later they repeated the trick with a break down the right wing followed by a cross-shot.
Manager Danny Taylor gave an unambiguous talk to his players at half time and saw them increase their efforts when the match resumed although the Brigg defence seldom allowed any advance.
Marshall came as close to scoring as anyone in the away team on the hour when he turned past his marker and fired a shot which brushed the crossbar as it went behind the goal.
Inside the last ten minutes an unmarked BSR player rattled the crossbar from eight yards when it looked easier to score but it made no difference to the outcome and he’ll have the chance to do better in the final.
Crowle are at home to Scunthorpe Cosmos on Sunday, at Godnow Road. Kick-off is 10.30am.