The Soldiers bowed out of the Sheffield Cup after a 3-1 loss to Sheffield County Senior Premier Division side Penistone Church.
It was a battling performance by the Soldiers players and we were in the game throughout, but we didn't play well enough to cause an upset.
Church started the game the brighter, testing our defence with numerous crosses and corners. After a change of shape we did seem to weather the storm but some good play by Penistone put them ahead after 25 mins. The Soldiers were instantly provided a lifeline after a Penistone defender blasted into the top corner under no pressure.
You could sense Penistone knew they had a game on their hands, and again upped their game. 5 mins after the equalizer they made it 2-1 with a brilliant headed goal from Church's number 9, who caused us problems all game. Then shortly before half time they made it 3-1.
We went into HT knowing we were in the game and we needed to score the next goal.
Elmsall started the half the brighter and Jay Hewitt tested the keeper with a good strike from 18 yards. Hewitt also had another chance to close the gap, but his shot found the keepers hands.
We carried on pressing and weren't really troubled by Penistone but we couldn't find the quality to get a goal.
It was a fair result and the difference in fitness and organization was the difference, but we battled and showed character to the very end and can take lots of positives from the game.
The JG Electrical Installations man of the match was Liam Womersley, who was a warrior throughout. Zak Sanderson, who covered every blade of grass, and Martin Walsh also shone.
We also wish Alex Thompson a speedy recovery after breaking his fibula and damaging his ankle in what the referee deemed a fair challenge. All the best Tommo!
Up the Soldiers!