Shortwood 3–0 Brimscombe & Thrupp – GFA Challenge Trophy 1st Round
By Jim Cunneen
Shortwood continued their excellent form following Saturday’s win at Ludlow, securing a 3–0 victory over Brimscombe in the County Cup. They will now face Newent at Meadowbank, with the date to be confirmed.
Manager Pete Beadle rotated his squad ahead of the Vase game at Downton on Saturday, using the entire squad due to a few minor injuries. Brimscombe enjoyed periods of possession and helped produce an entertaining game, but the scoreline reflected Shortwood’s dominance on a wet and windy evening at Meadowbank.
Olly Whelan was solid at the back, though Asamoah Afriyie was voted man of the match for his tireless work upfront. His partnership with Alfie Bradshaw was particularly effective.
Early setbacks saw Benji Cronin limping off after just six minutes, replaced by Bradshaw. Afriyie caused constant problems for the Brimscombe defence, including an 8-minute solo run that was only denied by a full-length save from goalkeeper Clatworthy, followed by a close-range shot that narrowly missed.
Shortwood finally broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute. Bradshaw’s precise through ball found Gardner, who calmly finished with a low shot. At half-time, Martin replaced Cooke and scored with his first touch, again set up by Gardner. The third goal came in the 75th minute: Bradshaw’s cross was met perfectly by Jai Underwood, who powered a header into the far post.
Shortwood could have added more, with both Afriyie and Martin going close late on.
Shortwood lineup: Wright, Price, King T, Underwood, Whelan, Royer (Blacker), Cronin (Bradshaw), Cooke (Martin), Afriyie, Mulraney, Gardner (King E)
Star Player: Asamoah Afriyie
