United FC are kings of a penalty shoot-out (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

United FC are kings of a penalty shoot-out

HAVING already won the Hellenic League Reserve Section Division 2 West, Cirencester Reserves double up on their success by winning the League Cup at Wantage on Thursday evening of last week.

But they had to do it the hard way as, after the tie ended in a goal-less stalemate, United players kept their nerves to win 5-3 in the ensuing penalty shoot-out.

On the night, though, Eaton Wick, from the East Division, started the better with their experienced defender Rob Curtis dictating the pace of the game.

Gradually United settled and with Steve Ford and Adam O'Bree probing down the flanks, were able to put the Wick defence under some pressure.

Unfortunately, after 30 minutes Ford had to be withdrawn with ham string trouble.

Adam Keslake went on and continued to nullify the Wick No 8, Hill, who was quick and purposeful.

Mid-way through the first half, United custodian Matt Keslake was to bring off a fine double save when he denied Jackson and then Clough from point-blank range.

In a game of limited chances, he again denied Clough when the No 10 was put through for a one on one late into extra time.

While his determination and all-round play made Keslake United's man of the match, all players from both sides did well on the night.

For Cirencester, Aidey Smith, Paul Richings and Julian Reeves were superb at the back whilst Sean Pocock tried to create or score from midfield.

Mark Edwards, who ran himself into to a virtual standstill, was replaced by Sean Kirby who was amongst the successful penalty takers, the others being Smith, Pocock, Rich Barry and Adam Keslake.

Les Davies, United's player-manager, was delighted when his opposite number, Danny Pritchard, blasted Eton Wick's first kick over the bar.