Macc & District FA Sunday Cup

(sponsored  by Gradus Ltd )

Action from Sunday’s Final at Moss Rose

Alderley Royal Oak      4      Poynton Workman  2

Alderley Royal Oak claimed the Macc FA Sunday  in an absorbing encounter at Moss Rose against East Cheshire Sunday league rivals Poynton Workmen. The scoreline was harsh on Poynton  who dominated the second half  but one piece of sublime finishing from Scott McGowan  and a late penalty  from  Andy Hurst ensured  they went  home empty handed.

The opening minutes  were nip and tuck with Oak looking to use the pace of McGowan down the middle and they took the lead on thirteen minutes  when Steve Boardman flicked the ball over his head and then reeled away in delight as it looped over everyone including keeper Marcus Pencheon  and into the net.  Poynton were stunned  but pressed forward  in search of the equaliser. Paul Kendal , who won everything in the air thundered a header against the bar , but they couldn’t break through a resolute defence  until ten minutes before half time when Mark Faulkner managed to tap home from close range  as he got on the end  of Paul Kendall’s flick at the near post . There was still time for more action as Alderley took the lead  right on half time . Scott McGowan jinked his way clear on the left and his cross  left strike partner Andy Hurst with a simple tap in.

Poynton's keeper Marcus Pencheon

Barely ten minutes into the second half  with Poynton pressing hard for the equaliser  McGowan produced a moment of magic as, seeing keeper Marcus Pencheon  slightly off his line , he hoisted the ball over his head  from outside the penalty area and into the net to make it 3-1 and give Oak a two goal cushion. . Mark Faulkner pulled a goal back with a great header but keeper Mike Ratican was in tremendous form to smother any further chances.

Substitutes Scott Bajic and Luke Taylor added physical presence and fresh legs to Poynton’s cause but with seconds remaining referee Pete Gregory who had an excellent match awarded Oak a penalty  and striker Andy Hurst gleefully despatched the spot – kick to confirm the victory for management duo Mark Paolo and Steve Aymes Royal Oak team.

Scott McGowan celebrates his goal