Midland Floodlit Youth League (MFYL) Southern Division

Slimbridge U18s 2

Stourport 5

Slimbridge U18s suffer first League defeat of the season in in their final game, writes David Morgan.

An outstanding performance by Ryan Smith in the Stourport goal made the difference on the night with a number of great saves. In very difficult playing conditions, the Swans took an early lead through an own goal in the fifth minute. Stourport levelled on 30 minute and the half finished 1-1. Stourport were quick off the blocks in the second-half and took the lead on 47 minutes. The young Swans then lay siege on the Stourport goal and were awarded a penalty on 70 minutes which was sent over the bar.

Relentless pressure continued to build on the Stourport goal, and the Swans were finally rewarded with an equalizer from a clinical finish by Adam Bloomfield on 77minutes. Stourport yet again scored within two minutes of the restart on 79 minutes. The Swans then went all out for an equaliser, but conceded two late goals on 87 and 89 minutes.

The young Swans finish the 2018-19 league campaign two point clear of second-place Malvern, who visit third-place Stourport on March 21. If Malvern fail to win the young Swans will become Midland Floodlit Youth League (MFYL) Southern Division champions.

David Morgan, chairman of Slimbridge U18s said: “It has been an amazing first season for the young Swans far exceeding all expectations, everyone at the club are immensely proud of the lads and coaching staff. Our manager Adam Coyle has done a tremendous job this season. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the fantastic supporters and backroom staff. Our season and excitement continues as we host Almondsbury in the GFA U18 County Cup semi-final at Thornhill Park on Tuesday 19th March so please come along and support the young Swans.”

The young Swans season will also be extended as they play in the invitational MFYL supplementary cup.