The
second Plate semi-final pitted Milner Street against
World Pinteur, who came into the game with the
third-best defence in the tournament. Slightly
bizarrely they were yet to keep a clean sheet
– conceding 1 goal (but no more) per game. Milner
Street started brightly, forcing an early own
goal that gave them the lead and immediately put
pressure on the French side. Harry Nicholl then
added his sixth goal of the tournament to make
it 2-0 at half-time, giving Milner Street a strong
advantage and setting up a tense second half.
World
Pinteur responded after the break, showing why
they had been so competitive throughout this tournament.
Richard Leibovici and Pierre Lachaud scored to
level the game at 2-2, demonstrating the French
side's resilience. The game had swung in favour
of the French visitors, and it seemed like a penalty
shootout could be on the cards.
Milner
Street, however, were not to be denied. George
Gould restored their lead with a well-taken strike,
giving his team renewed momentum and control of
the match. The English side maintained their intensity
and composure, ensuring they kept World Pinteur
pinned back and limiting further threats from
the French side. Alex Short then made the game
safe with a fourth goal, sealing a 4-2 win for
Milner Street.
World
Pinteur, who had only conceded five goals in their
previous five games, were overpowered by the attacking
quality and precision of Milner Street. The victory
secured their place in the Plate Final and highlighted
their ability to perform in the biggest moments
of the tournament.
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