Football: Camden Sunday League CNJ Challenge Cup Recap
Thursday, 26th January 2012
Published: 26 January, 2012
by STEVE BARNETT
THERE will be a little bit of history repeating itself when Phoenix take on Athletico Annies in the final of the Camden Sunday League CNJ Challenge Cup next month.
The two teams contested the final last season, with all-conquering Phoenix narrowly winning the trophy 3-2 in a thrilling encounter at Cockfosters Stadium.
This time around the holders have an added incentive when it comes to being up for the cup as they look to win the competition for the third year in a row.
Looking ahead to the big showdown which is due to be played on February 19, Phoenix manager Dave Harber said: “I respect Annies and know that on their day they are a really dangerous team. We wish them all the best for the final, but obviously hope they end up getting the wrong result. May the best team win.”
Phoenix, who won the quadruple last season, booked their place in yet another final on Sunday when they beat Cobden Athletic 3-0 at Hackney Marshes.
Winger Gio Falzone opened the scoring before strikes from Anthony Clarke and Jamie Killingback wrapped up a commanding victory.
Dave was full of praise for his team after the final whistle, especially left-back Robert O’Brien, who was voted man-of-the-match.
“Young Robert is a tremendous player,” he said. “He represents the future of Phoenix. He’ll play anywhere you ask him to and always gives you 100 per cent. Gio is also in outstanding form, and really playing at his best this year. He’s come into his own and simply thrives on scoring goals.”
Phoenix will be looking to continue their free-scoring form in front of goal on Sunday when they fly the flag for the Camden Sunday League in the London FA Intermediate Cup.
In Division One table toppers Reddot boasted seven different scorers as they netted a 7-1 victory over AFC Shooters.
Paul “Trigger” Reid, Steven Bruce, Jon “Bobatov” Purcell, Mitchell Graham, Robert Taylor, Alexie Nicolaou and Shane McNamara all found the back of the net in the rout.
The win leaves Reddot four points clear at the top of the table, although title rivals Phoenix and Cobden Athletic both have two games in hand.
The Dots will have to be at their best if they are going to pick up the points this Sunday when they take on Challenge Cup finalists Athletico Annies at Hackney Marshes.
