Kestrels Dig Deep and Deliver in Dramatic Surrey Cup Triumph

A huge thank you to everyone for battling the very early kickoff, and a special shout-out to Kirsty for securing the 4G pitch — absolutely key in getting this cup tie played.

The Kestrels started extremely slowly once again, perhaps feeling the effects of a lot of recent football… or maybe just the early morning! The opening 20 minutes were tight and competitive, with both teams fighting for control.

Camberley struck first. A long ball from their goalkeeper released the winger on the left, who burst around our defenders and struck an unstoppable shot into the net. 1–0 to the Rockets.

But that goal sparked the response we needed.

We began to build momentum, took control, and deservedly equalised. Maxi won the first ball brilliantly, shifted it out wide to Zac, and Zac delivered a pinpoint cross for Max, who finished with a composed left-foot strike into the bottom corner. 1–1.

Half-time arrived quickly with a clear message: There are no second chances in the cup. We needed to be stronger, quicker to the first and second balls, and win the game in normal time rather than relying on penalties.

The boys came out and did exactly that.

We dominated the second half, playing better with energy and intent. A key moment came when Archie, showing fantastic strength, powered through three defenders and was clipped from behind in the box. The referee pointed straight to the spot.

Max stepped up. The keeper saved well, but Max reacted fastest to bury the rebound and complete the turnaround. 2–1.

From there, it was about game management — and we handled it superbly. We controlled possession, played higher up the pitch, and looked more likely to score again, leaving a few chances on the pitch but keeping the Rockets at arm’s length.

A brilliant moment saw Thomas return to action after a long injury layoff. Great to have him back, and we’ll look to build up his minutes over the next few games.

Final Score: Mytchett Athletic Kestrels 2–1 Camberley Town Rockets

Into Round 4 of the Surrey Youth Cup! 🎉

🔄 Note on Tactics & Game Time

As this was a cup game, I did change my approach today. My priority was ensuring the boys got through to the next round, so team shape, control, and game management came first — which meant I didn’t necessarily take usual game time or positioning rotation into account. I appreciate some may feel a little aggrieved, but cup football is unforgiving and today the focus had to be on progression.

🏆 Man of the Match – Zac

A standout display on the right wing. Zac consistently beat his defender, stayed positive on the ball, and gave us a real advantage down that side — exactly why we targeted it throughout the game. A fully deserved MOTM performance.

Final Round-Up

A battling performance, a strong comeback, and superb control in the second half saw the Kestrels earn the win and secure a place in the 4th Round of the Surrey Youth Cup. The team showed character and determination — exactly what knockout football demands. A brilliant result for the boys and the supporters. Onwards to Round 4! 🔵🟡⚽️