Longlevens displayed resilience and determination in the Floodlit Cup final, overturning an early deficit to triumph 4-1 over Hungerford Town Reserves at Stonehouse Town’s Oldends Lane.
Hungerford opened the scoring thanks to Callum Ginger, who calmly converted after a swift break down the left flank. Despite the early setback, Longlevens refused to buckle, regrouping and dominating the remainder of the match with a spirited performance.
Longlevens manager Buster Davies was “over the moon,” praising his team for their “brilliant second-half display.” The first half, however, saw Hungerford start stronger, with Longlevens goalkeeper Drew Brei making crucial saves to keep the scoreline close.
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After Ginger’s opener, Longlevens created multiple chances, most notably through Alex Knight, the semi-final’s sole scorer, though they couldn’t find the net before halftime. Davies admitted, “I didn’t recognize our first-half performance,” but was confident the team would respond.
The second half saw Longlevens take control, pressing high and generating sustained pressure on Hungerford’s defense. Cameron Williams broke the deadlock just after the hour mark with a stunning 30-yard strike that left goalkeeper Alex Braidwood with no chance.
Longlevens’ momentum continued as Jay Wells headed in a corner to give them the lead, putting Hungerford under intense pressure. Although Hungerford had chances to equalize, Longlevens' solid defence held strong.
Williams doubled his tally with 15 minutes remaining, easing the tension for Longlevens and demonstrating his status as a “big game player," as Davies noted. The victory was sealed when Brad Martin headed home following a rebound off the crossbar.
The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations as Longlevens lifted the Cup, rewarding their grit and determination. They now prepare to host Fairford Town in the Hellenic League Premier Division this Thursday.
Longlevens lineup: Brei, Roddie, Byard, Long (c), Wells, O’Conner, Beardsell, Williams, Lodge, Driscoll, Knight. Subs: Spencer, Sherchan, Holmes, Hyett, Martin.
Hungerford Town Reserves lineup: Braidwood, Bucknell, Blackford, Ginger, Luckett, Dopson, Passey, Tomlinson, Squires (c), Thorp, Howes. Subs: Cooper, Barrett, Green Sides, Seymour, Atkins.