Worcester Forge emerged victorious in the Cheltenham League Primary Charity Cup, defeating Whaddon United III 3-0 in a decisive final held Friday night at FC Lakeside’s Cold Pool Lane.
The triumph was sealed by goals from George Handsaker, Dale Wilson, and Mason James, who each contributed to a dominant performance that secured the silverware for Worcester Forge.
The scoring opened in the 17th minute when Handsaker capitalized on a high cross from Tristan Whilby, heading the ball at the back post into the net past a narrowly beaten goalkeeper. This early lead set the tone for the rest of the match.
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Both teams contested fiercely in the opening stages, with chances created on both ends. Whaddon United’s efforts through Zac Lewis and Dylan Robinson were thwarted by a vigilant Forge goalkeeper, ensuring the score remained level until Forge’s breakthrough.
Wilson extended the lead before halftime after persistent pressure and clever link-up play with Tyler Nicholson, navigating past a steadfast Whaddon defense to find the net. Whaddon came close to reducing the deficit via Jack Mayo’s headed attempt from a corner, but the effort missed the target.
The second half saw Whaddon United push forward in search of a goal, with Robinson’s long throw and Alfie Bolger’s corner causing threats inside the Forge penalty area. However, Worcester Forge maintained composure and continued to control possession.
Their efforts were rewarded in the 68th minute when a well-delivered free kick found Mason James, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom right corner, cementing Forge’s commanding 3-0 advantage.
Substitute Luke Roberts created several opportunities following the third goal, yet Whaddon’s goalkeeper Sam Atkinson made crucial saves to keep the scoreline intact.
As the match drew to a close, Whaddon’s Robinson made a last-ditch attempt at a consolation goal with a header that narrowly missed, ensuring a deserved clean sheet for Worcester Forge.
Team lineups:
Whaddon United III: Atkinson, Oldham, Mayo, Robinson, Howley, Bolger, MacMorack, Carr, Surman, Lewis, Beauan. Subs: Parsons, Anderson, Smith, Falloon, Pockett.
AFC Worcester Forge: Pinnock, Bassett, Phipps, Rowley, Burgess, Whilby, Perry, James, Handsaker, Nicholson, Wilson. Subs: Stubbs, L Ralph, McLay, Roberts, M Ralph.