Rushall Village FC U14s took to the pitch today in a fiercely contested Walsall League Cup fixture against local rivals Pelsall Villa Colts Titans. With a long-standing history of competitive encounters between the two sides, expectations were high – and the match delivered in full.
From the outset, it was clear both teams were determined to progress to the next round. Rushall started cautiously, taking time to assess the Titans’ tactical approach. Historically, Pelsall have favoured a direct long-ball strategy, which has caused us problems in previous meetings. However, with a newly organised defensive line and recent training focused on mid and low block transitions, we felt well-prepared to counter their strengths.
That preparation was tested early. Within the first five minutes, Pelsall’s pacey forwards broke through our lines with alarming ease, exploiting the space behind our defence. But once we recognised the pattern, our shape tightened, and we began to impose our own style on the game. From that point forward, Rushall looked composed and confident in possession, completing 192 passes and stringing together a remarkable 13-pass sequence before losing the ball – an excellent reflection of our growing maturity on the ball.
The breakthrough came midway through the first half. Joe, operating in midfield, was cynically pulled back as he drove out of the opposition box with the ball. Up stepped Rio, who calmly placed the ball and unleashed a powerful left-footed strike that soared into the top corner. 1 – 0 to Rushall.
Pelsall responded with intensity. Their physicality and aerial threat were evident, particularly during set pieces. A well-delivered corner to the back post found Tommie – one of our standout Saturday MJPL players – who rose above our defence to head home the equaliser. 1 – 1.
Rushall’s second goal was a moment of real quality. Riley danced through midfield traffic with clever footwork before threading a precise ball into Rio, who instinctively flicked it around the corner into Jareal’s path. Although his initial shot was parried by the keeper, Jareal showed great determination to follow up and slot the rebound home. 2 – 1.
The final minutes were tense. Pelsall threw everything forward, launching wave after wave of attack. With just two minutes remaining, a deep cross to the back post was met by a well-timed run and finish, levelling the score at 2 – 2 and sending the game to penalties.
⚔️ Penalty Shootout Drama
Penalty shootouts are never easy – they’re a test of nerve, luck, and composure. Fortunately for Rushall, Aaron stood tall in goal, making a crucial save and watching two of Pelsall’s efforts drift wide. Our takers held their nerve, and we secured the win to book our place in the next round.
Despite missing our regular striker through injury, the team delivered an impressive performance, finishing with 57% possession and 12 shots on goal. The result felt deserved, not just for the quality of football played but for the resilience shown throughout.
We couldn’t be prouder of the lads today. Their teamwork, discipline, and desire were evident from start to finish. We also extend our respect and best wishes to Pelsall Villa Colts Titans for the remainder of their season – they were formidable opponents and played their part in a thrilling cup tie.
