Combined Counties League Cup holders, Maidenhead United, exited the competition in the Second Round despite valiant efforts to fight back against Actonians.
Goalkeeper Kenny Clarke was kept busy all game with the Magpies heading in at half time two goals down to the visitors. A Simone O’Brien was deflected in as they fought back but Actonians secured a third goal less than 15 minutes later, Poppy Whitburn proved herself a super sub, after replacing Liberty Dieppe early on, as she fired direct at goal in the 87th minute to make it 2-3. Some last minute substitutions in search of an equaliser wasn’t enough to force extra time and Maidenhead found themselves out the competition they won last season.
Despite the early exit, Manager Ed Jackson-Norris was still pleased with his side’s efforts, “Gutted to go out of the competition, but really pleased with the second half in particular. Much more endeavour, great body language, enthusiasm and freedom to play, plus a first goal for Poppy too! Come back like that in the new year and our mini slump won’t last much longer!”
The draw confirms that Actonians will play the Magpies fellow Berkshire side, Ascot United, in Round Three with a date yet to be confirmed.
