1st Knockout Game
Rushall Village vs AFC Fradley Hornets
The boys were excited and ready for their first knockout match, a chance to reach the quarter‑finals and show how much they’ve improved since Fradley last beat us.
It was a tight, competitive game from the start, with both teams creating chances and defending well. Half‑time: 0–0
In the second half, we stepped up the tempo. Our passing improved, we got into better positions, and eventually the pressure paid off. We were awarded a free‑kick, and Rio struck it with power, the keeper couldn’t hold it, and it found the net to give us a deserved lead.
Fradley pushed hard to get back into the game, but our defence was excellent. Koby, Adam, Freddie, and Oscar all played their part brilliantly, while Tommy and Rio kept us dangerous on the break.
Right at the end, Adam burst through on goal with strength and agility, narrowly missing what would have been a fantastic finish. The whistle blew, and the boys celebrated a huge win and a place in the quarter‑finals.
FT: Rushall Village 1–0 AFC Fradley Hornets 🟠⚫
Quarter‑Final
Rushall Village vs AFC Wolves Spartans
A big challenge awaited against the unbeaten group leaders, a team who had won every game comfortably.
We started well, passing and moving confidently, showing real progress as a team. Wolves showed their quality, but our lads didn’t make it easy for them. A few referee decisions went against us, a strong tackle from Koby was harshly given as a free‑kick, and a coming‑together was judged as a penalty, which they converted.
Despite this, Adam was outstanding in goal, volunteering to step in and making multiple brilliant saves. Koby was solid at the back, Freddie cleared danger well, Oscar worked tirelessly, and Tommy and Rio continued to push forward and look threatening.
At half‑time we were 2–0 down but still very much fighting. The boys kept going, but Wolves added a third and then a fourth, the last coming from a deflection off one of our players heads, which was very harsh.
The scoreline didn’t reflect the effort, spirit, or determination shown. The boys gave everything against a top side and can be proud of their performance.
FT: Rushall Village 0–4 AFC Wolves Spartans 🟠⚫
Players of the Match
🏆 Parents Player: Adam
A brilliant all‑round performance. Strong tackling, composed passing, superb saves in goal, and even nearly scoring late on. A fantastic week and fully deserved recognition.
Well done, Adam! 👏🧤⚽
🏆 Managers Player: Koby
Rock‑solid at the back again, clearing danger, staying calm under pressure, and making smart passes to help us move up the pitch.
Excellent work, Koby! 👏🏆
Final Thoughts 💭
We’re incredibly proud of our boys today and throughout this tournament. Reaching the quarter‑finals is a brilliant achievement, and the progress has been clear for everyone to see.
The team has grown closer, played with heart, and shown real improvement week by week. Every player contributed, and the spirit within the group is something special.
Well done, lads, you’ve done Rushall Village proud. 👏🟠⚫
