Polo's extra time win over Hare and Hounds

May 14 2009 by Our Correspondent, Ormskirk Advertiser

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Hare and Hounds2

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POLO made it a cup double with an extra time victory over Hare & Hounds.

Hare started this game very well and the first real chance fell their way after 18 minutes but a fine point blank save by Ged Gandy kept the scoreline blank.

There was little he could do five minutes later as Mark King blasted into the top corner to make it 1-0 after a goal mouth scramble.

Polo had a good chance on the 25 minute mark but it produced a fine save from Mark Nickson in the Hare & Hounds goal, and minutes later Hare & Hounds made it 2-0 as Daley Connolly rose to score with a fine header.

Hare & Hounds were clearly the better side in the opening 45 minutes, but right from the start of the second period Polo took a grip on the game making more of their possession.

Polo finally pulled a goal back after 81 minutes when a looping cross went just over the line for Steve Edwards and it was really game on.

Two minutes later and the scores were level as Paul Moores hit a superb 25 yard effort into the bottom corner to take this game into extra time.

Both teams looked tired in the extra period and the game really opened up with half chances falling to both sides, and it was Polo who took their opportunity to finally seal the win.

A goalbound shot was cleared off the line by Hare & Hounds Anthony Powis but from the resulting throw in Steve Edwards turned the ball in with a fantastic overhead kick – a goal deserving of winning a Cup Final.

All in all a fine game between two very evenly matched teams, with the man of the Match going to Brad Wilkie of Polo. The game was also well marshalled again by Mark Hickey and his Assistant referees – a good way to end the season.

The Skelmersdale Sunday League is accepting teams for the 2009/10 season. Anyone wishing to enter a team for next season should contact Jim Wilson on 01695 725971.

Referees are also being asked to apply for next season. Call the number above for further details.