Eagles Soar on Penalties to Reach Shield Semi-Final
Somerset Eagles 4 (3) X-Roads 4 (2) - After Extra Time
Somerset Eagles produced a stunning upset in the Shield quarter-final, overcoming First Division leaders X-Roads 4-4 (3-2 on penalties) after a thrilling encounter at the BAA Field.
The underdogs showed incredible resilience to fight back from a two-goal deficit and ultimately prevail in a dramatic penalty shootout.
X-Roads, flying high at the top of the First Division, looked to be in control after a goalless first half. Khamori Brangman struck twice in quick succession early in the second period to give his side a commanding 2-0 lead.
However, Somerset Eagles refused to lie down. K'Tori Butterfield pulled a goal back in the 62nd minute, before Rushsine Murphy levelled the scores with a well-taken strike in the 74th minute.
The drama continued in extra time. Cardel Henry edged Somerset Eagles ahead, only for Amir Wilson to equalise for X-Roads. Rico Beek then restored X-Roads' lead, but Nathan Rego responded once again for the Eagles to send the tie to penalties.
With the scores locked at 4-4 after extra time, and Somerset Eagles having missed a late penalty through Dylan Arruda, the tie went to a nail-biting shootout. The Eagles held their nerve to win 3-2, securing a memorable victory and a place in the semi-finals.
This result will send shockwaves through the competition and serves as a reminder that in cup football, anything is possible.
Hornets Sting Colts to Reach Friendship Semi-Final
Dandy Town Hornets 1 St. George’s Colts 0
Dandy Town Hornets edged past St. George's Colts with a 1-0 victory at the BAA Field to secure their place in the Friendship Trophy Semi-Final.
In a tightly contested encounter, a first-half strike from Enrico Outerbridge proved to be the difference between the two sides.
The Hornets started brightly and created several early chances before Outerbridge broke the deadlock. His goal gave Dandy Town a slender lead which they defended resolutely throughout the remainder of the match.
St. George's Colts battled hard to find an equalizer, but the Hornets' defense held firm to secure a clean sheet and a hard-fought victory.
