By Isle of Wight Observer
Wessex Premier League, Cowes, won the Island’s premier trophy, the Gold Cup, in front of almost 1,000 spectators at Westwood Park, beating newly-promoted East Cowes 2-1.
Vics had the better of the early exchanges, with Scott Jones giving East Cowes an early lead as they scored past keeper, Ed Hatt. Cowes increasingly controlled a dogged midfield battle, forcing an equaliser, through Scott MacFarlane, with barely 10 minutes gone.
Although Liam Newbold came close for Vics, heading over from a set-piece, defender, Callum Chase, gave Cowes their second goal, hitting home at the back post for a 2-1 lead, with that score-line remaining until the break. There were bookings for Vics’ skipper, Liam Newbold, Jacob Reynolds, and Cowes’ Jake Wright.
The second half saw few chances, with both keepers keeping the opposition forwards at bay. Cowes, with home advantage, secured victory and their third successive Gold Cup success. Ryan Oatley was awarded player of the match.
Cowes’ skipper, John McKie, collected the trophy before starting the celebrations in front of a jubilant crowd.
The Hants FA Saturday Vase Competition has ended in controversy, after finalists, Sandown & Lake Res, were alleged to have played an ineligible player in their successful semi-final, with their opponents ‘folding’ at the end of their league season.
Shanklin Ladies came back from conceding the first goal, with a 5-1 home victory against Rushmoor Community, with an outstanding hat-trick for returning Thea Broadhead, who was voted player of the match. Dani Melninkaite and Mia Richardson were also on the scoresheet.
Shanklin enjoy their Veterans’ FA Cup Final match tomorrow (Saturday), followed with Shanklin Ladies playing their last match of the season at home to Andover New Street on Sunday.