RAF Icarus FC march on to the semi-finals!

On 4 Feb 23, RAF Icarus FC travelled to Old Owens FC in the Quarter Finals of the Intermediate AFA Cup. Despite laying the foundations for a solid start, the team couldn’t get any rhythm going inside the first 10 minutes, giving possession away sloppily and ultimately paying the price when a simple throw-in to the box found an unmarked Old Owens’ player to nod them 1-0 up. Woken up, Icarus regained control of the game and a quick fire double from the triple nicknamed “Cone-al”, “Rolo”, “Burchy” put the side 2-1 up. 2 great strikes, with some excellent interchange in between, however, with a big helping hand from the opposition keeper, who subsequently had to do a gloves change to a set without holes in them. New gloves on, the keeper pulled off a worldie to keep out GDT’s rocket of a strike and prevent Icarus FC entering the break at 1-3.

Half time score: 1-2.

The second half brought a scrappy affair and 1 which was marred by some very soft officiating. A stop, start game, with little quality for the first 20 mins, was then lit up by the debutant Toby, who’s turn and 25 yard left foot ping into the bottom bin was exactly what the doctor ordered. No back-lift, absolutely nonchalant and 1 that was deserved for the graft he showed throughout the game. The officials lost control of the game at this point and a flurry of cards were produced. Despite their best efforts to plead innocence both Si Wain and Pip found themselves in the book. Then in approximately the 75th minute, a long ball caused confusion in the Icarus defence and their striker rounded Broomer, hitting a strike which caught Pip on his hand. The ref had made up his mind, this accidental world class save was enough to bring a second yellow and a scorching hot early shower. For the last 15 mins, Icarus fought for every ball and Owens’ chances were limited, with Broomer repelling anything that came near his goal. The last minute saw a flash point, where an Owens player decided to take matters into his own hands and kick out at Burch, causing a melee which saw another Owens player yellow carded. The ref, taking no nonsense, gave the antagonist his marching orders, straight red and full time. Onto the semi-finals for Icarus FC, 1-3 victors on the day.

MOTM: Connall Burchell-Royle
#UTI ?⚪️