Chichester City Colts kicked off the first half with the wind against them, facing uphill. It was an even start to the game with both teams attempting to gain possession.
Chichester Cty Colts created a 1-on-1 chance for Willem following some neat passes and a great through ball from Jamie E. This was denied on the edge of the box by a smart save from their keeper. Arundel took this as a warning and managed to get a strong foothold on the game, but Chichester defenders limited them to a few half chances along with our goalie, Fin, sweeping up any attempted through balls. Chichester started to get back in the game with some good passing, getting through Arudnel’s defense a couple of times, only to be denied by last-ditch challenges and saves.
With ten minutes of the half to go Colts made a few substitutions to give us fresh legs. Chichester worked hard in midfield and kept the pressure on their full-backs, with determination Colts worked the ball to Jamie G, who crossed to Louie who took a couple of nice touches, evading the defender and poking it past the onrushing keeper from 7 yards, to give Colts a deserved lead just before half time.
HT – Arundel 0 – 1 Chichester Colts Whites.
As expected, Arundel came out strong at the start of the second half, trying to get back on level terms. However, Chichester defended well and didn’t allow them any space to pick out the final pass. The ever-energetic Joshua P breaking up their play at every opportunity, and Colts wingers tracking well to strengthen our defense. The game became end-to-end, as both teams searched for a much-needed goal. However, Chichester hit them on the break with a ball over the top, only for Thomas’s shot to bounce narrowly wide. Colts kept Arundel to a few more half chances which did not cause Fin much trouble.
With 10 minutes to go, after a few tough tackles, an opposition player was shown a red card for descent. Colts did well to stay composed and focused on the job at hand, working hard to keep Arundel at bay. Colts had the ball in the back of the net again, only for it to be ruled out, due to a foul in the build-up to the goal.
The final whistle saw Colts qualify for the semi-final, of the challenge cup!
FT – Arundel 0 – 1 Chichester Colts Whites
