FMFA Manager

Brighton U23 1 - 1 Crystal Palace U23
Crystal Palace U23 wins the penalty shootout 5-4

Another disappointment in a very disappointing season. We played well, had more chances and possession etc. and then managed to blow it in the shootout.

Good luck in the final Ed, well played buddy!

DERBY COUNTY U23 0-0 Everton U23
(Derby County win 3-1 on penalties)

A fiercely competitive and at times scrappy encounter ended goalless after 120 minutes, as County U23 and Everton U23 played out a tense stalemate. Both sides created chances but were unable to convert any, thanks largely to strong defensive performances, poor finishing and good goalkeeping from both Shattell and Kelleher.

The game was fairly even between the teams, as the stats confirm, and this match could've gone either way.

We looked dangerous in spells, with Stretton and Weston both guilty of spurning golden opportunities. Ryan Howley also came close with a powerful first-half strike that clipped the post but it was by no means one way traffic with Everton responding with threatening moves through Simms and Butler, the latter hitting the woodwork in the second half.

Injuries and physical battles punctuated the game, with Onyango forced off early and several players receiving stern warnings for late tackles with Everton pair Aksakal and S-Smith receiving yellow cards late in the second half.

With the game going all the way penalties fitness could become an issue for the stretched Derby Under 23 team but a cup final is a great reward and very unexpected!