Published: 8 March, 2012
by STEVE BARNETT

AN old rivalry will be reignited later this month after Reddot and Phoenix booked their place in the final of the Camden Sunday League Senior Cup at the weekend.

Reddot (pictured) came from a goal down to beat MDM at Hackney Marshes as they bid to win the cup for the fifth time in the club’s history.

Captain Micky Dowsett equalised for the Dots against the run of play when he unleashed a thunderbolt from the edge of the area after MDM failed to clear their lines from a corner.

The goal sparked a Dennis Bergkamp-esque celebration as the centre-half cupped his hand over his mouth to emulate his Arsenal hero. Delighted Micky said afterwards: “It’s the best goal I’ve ever scored, I’ve never hit a ball so sweetly.

“I was celebrating before it even hit the back of the net, especially as it was a vital goal that brought us right back in to the match.”

The Dots took control in the second half when Paul ‘Trigger’ Reid scored at the near post following an incisive run and cross from man-of-the-match Lukusa Soki.

And Steven Bruce nutmegged the keeper to add a third, before Reid wrapped up a 4-1 win from the penalty spot.

But not before he’d had to win the spot-taking honours with an impromptu game of rock, paper, scissors to ensure he was the right man for the job.

Reddot will certainly have to be at their best if they are to go on and lift the cup as they face holders Phoenix, who are looking to win the trophy for the third year in a row.

Phoenix showed the versatility within their squad as they overcame the absence of some key players to beat Athletico Annies.

Top-scorer Gio Falzone played in goal, while centre-back Lewis Laws led their attack.

The changes to the starting line-up didn’t affect their performance with makeshift striker Laws capping a man-of-the-match display with four well-taken goals.

Anthony Clarke and Jake King were also on target as Phoenix wrapped up a resounding 6-3 victory.

Looking ahead to the final, manager Dave Harber said: “I’m sure there will be a bit of banter between me and Micky. Reddot are a good side and I wish them all the luck for the final. But they know they’re facing the best side in the league.

“And they will have to have all their top players firing to stop us from winning the cup.”