Great Baddow F.C. retain the Premier Division League Cup

Great Baddow F.C. 4 Stifford Town F.C. 3 a.e.t

It is difficult to know where to start to comment on a tremendous, exciting final in which both teams played their part in ensuring this was a great advert for the Mid-Essex Football League.

Holders Great Baddow started strongly and had early chances in which to take an early lead. Josh Brown had Baddow's first chance of note in the 13th minute but saw his effort on goal turned aside by keeper Popham.

After 20 minutes Stifford Town took the lead from their first meaningful attack. A free kick was launched into the Baddow penalty box where Reece Meadows headed goalwards and saw the ball nestle in the far corner. Within 5 minutes Stifford had extended their lead when a cross from the left was met at the far post and the cross come shot fell to Joey Law to score.

Baddow were stunned but bounced back quickly and sought to reduce the deficit. Adam Flack had two good chances but on both occasions was denied by saves from Popham. Grant Hill from Baddow struck the outside of the post and Max Johnson then saw an effort tipped over by the excellent Stifford keeper who ensured that Stifford we able to go into the half time interval with their two goal advantage in tact.

Half Time Great Baddow F.C. 0 Stifford Town F.C. 2

Baddow started the second half as they ended the first putting pressure on the Stifford goal and it was no surprise when Luke Perry met a left wing cross and unmarked headed home.

The Chelmsford based team however gifted their opponents a third on 65 minutes when a defensive error allowed substitute Chris Day to roll the ball into an empty net.

John Stanley was denied by the Baddow keeper from a free kick on 74 minutes, but Baddow bounced back and saw some hope on 80 minutes when following a period of pressure Grant Hill netted straight from a free kick.

Baddow keeper Sibley then denied Jack Callow.

With the clock ticking down Baddow snateched a last ditch equaliser when Joe Collins struck from close range to take the game into extra time

Full Time Great Baddow F.C. 3 Stiiford Town F.C. 3

The pace of the previous 90 minutes and a heavy pitch took its toll on both sides in the additional 30 minutes which followed with chances at a premium.

Baddow looked the fitter of the two sides and with the game heading for a penalty shoot out, Stifford hearts were broken when Joe Collins pounced and snatched the all important fourth goal for Baddow with minutes remaining to secure the trophy for the Chelmsford based side.

Full Time Great Baddow F.C. 4 Stifford Town F.C. 3 a.e.t

A great game of football and a word for the three match officials who played their part in a tremendous and thrilling encounter

Attendance - 130