Crookham Rovers U23s were knocked out of the Hampshire Cup Saturday Vase in heartbreaking fashion, losing 4-2 on penalties to Sherfield English after a 2-2 draw in the third round.
Played at Sherfield English's ground west of Romsey, the match saw the visitors make a 100-mile round trip from Church Crookham in freezing conditions, with temperatures barely above 2°C.
In a tightly contested tie, Sherfield English took the lead before Tony Barnes equalised for Crookham. Zach Hansell then put the visitors ahead with a well-crafted goal to make it 2-1, only for Sherfield English to level the score and send the game to penalties.
Crookham suffered a setback when goalkeeper Louis Mattreavers was forced off with a head injury. Tony Barnes stepped in to take his place in goal and delivered a remarkable all-round performance, having already scored and assisted during the match. He also converted his penalty in the shootout and made a save.
Despite the disruption, Crookham adapted well, switching to a 4-5-1 formation in the second half to cope with Sherfield's physical presence up front. Jason West slotted in at right back, helping to shore up the defence.
Skipper Luke Gorton praised his side’s effort, saying: “I’m really proud of everyone today, every player put a real shift in. Massive credit to Tony, who was outstanding. He scored, assisted, stepped in as goalkeeper, scored his penalty and saved one too, my man of the match. Thanks also to those who didn’t get as many minutes but still put the team first. We go again in the league this weekend.”