FA Futsal Cup 2010

Great day at the office for FC Grimsby.  The national eliminating system meant that FCGY had to win a 3 team group including Real Mabrid (Scarborough) and Oldham Athletic.  Nothing was known  about our Scarborough opponents, Oldham was not the case as we had both beaten each other in FA League North home games during the 2010 season.

An intriguing situation, win both games and team was through, beat Real Mabrid by a close margin, losing was not an option, and Oldham was playing  last knowing the goal difference they would need to achieve to go through.

The day started badly as a defencive slip let Real Mabrid in to score 0-1.  A second close call was an even bigger wake up call. FCGY was creating chances but failing to do what the best clubs do, finish a high percentage of those chances.  Once FCGY had equalised the game became more 'ours to win.'  At 3-1 half time the signs was good, but yet again unforced errors let team down - 3-2.  The game was still alive and our Scarborough opponents had  players in their squad capable of causing opposition problems.  Finally 4-2, 5-2, 6-2 and one last slip to finish the game (6-3).

A +3 goal difference and Oldham next.

Totally different performance, the FCGY defence played as a unit, the game was slowed to a pace that suited Grimsby and opportunities were coming our way.  1-0 half time. 2-0 final score and a place in last 16. 

The September finals are   'world cup' format .  Teams play 1 game Friday, 2 Saturday, and 1, 2 or 3 games Sunday depending on qualifying position and results in knockout stages.

Team captain Mathew Payne (pictured) was delighted with his team performance, ' the team rose to the occasion after a stop start season its great to have a big occasion to work towards.'  Mathew singled out Gavin Broughton for a stunning performance in goal.

Team manager Kevin Bryant gave the Grimsby Institute ‘man of the match’ award to his captain for his work rate and goals over the 2 games, he added that the defensive organisation against Oldham deserved special mention.

The finals are at the prestigious English Institute of Sport in Sheffield.

Grimsby referee Gavin Sartain will be officiating at the Finals.