Men O35 vs ISCA - Quarter Final EH Plate

The TBB O35 Men booked their place in the EH O35s semi-finals in dramatic fashion, overcoming a two-goal deficit to defeat ISCA O35 Men in a nail-biting penalty shootout.

The first half proved a frustrating affair for TBB. ISCA started brightly, applying pressure and forcing TBB onto the back foot. Their persistence paid off when they converted a well-executed penalty corner, sending a flick past the TBB goalkeeper. Just before the half-time whistle, ISCA doubled their lead, after being awarded a penalty stroke due toa mistime tackle the TBB defence. The visitors went into the break with a comfortable 2-0 advantage.

Facing elimination, Buccs emerged for the second half with renewed vigour. A tactical reshuffle and a surge in intensity saw them begin to dominate possession and create chances. Their pressure eventually told when John Jackson stepped up to convert a penalty corner with a thunderous drag flick, sparking hope amongst the Buccs faithful.

The momentum had firmly shifted, and Buccs continued to push for an equaliser. Jackson, now a constant threat, turned provider, delivering a pinpoint cross from the right flank. Nick Blake Steele was on hand to drive into the D and take the ball round the ISCA goalkeeper, levelling the score and sending the game to a penalty shootout.

With the tension palpable, both teams prepared for the decisive shootout. TBB showed nerves of steel, converting all five of their penalty strokes with clinical precision. ISCA, however, faltered, missing their third attempt, gifting TBB a 5-4 victory and a place in the semi-finals.

Match Summary:

• Half-time: ISCA O35 2 - 0 TBB O35
• Full-time: ISCA O35 2 - 2 TBB O35
• Goals:
• ISCA O35: Penalty Corner, Penalty Stroke
• TBB O35: John Jackson (Penalty Corner), Nick Blake Steele (John Jackson Assist)
• Penalty Shootout: TBB O35 5 - 4 ISCA O35

Man of the Match: John Jackson (TBB O35) - For his goal and assist, and general impact on the game.