Sutton Schools Borough U11s made the tricky trip to Dacorum for a double header on Thursday and were frustrated until the final minute when a dramatic goal gave them all the league points and a place in the Southern Counties Cup semi-final.

On a tight pitch, two well organised defences held the upper hand and the few chances that did occur were suitably dealt with by either ‘keeper.

Just as it looked like the league points would be shared and the match would go to extra time, Alex Bannister popped up and saw his shot squeeze between the ‘keeper’s legs and trickle into the net. South West Trains player of the match with a classy display at full back was Jack Hopper.

Swindon 1 Sutton 3

A long trip to the West Country saw 2nd place Sutton meet 3rd place Swindon in a vital league clash.

Tommy Hicks headed Sutton in front from a corner but Swindon hit back to equalise through a long looping shot which Sutton ‘keeper Robert Feeley could only half clear – amazingly the only goal that Sutton have conceded in 8 league matches.

But Sutton were always mentally in control and after good work by Noah Vezzu, Alex Bannister slotted the ball into the far corner.

From that point it continued to be a tough old battle, but Sutton made the points secure when Cameron Steele bundled the ball home. South West Trains player of the match with a dynamic performance up front was Sam O’Leary-Blade.

Sutton now lie 1 point behind the Vale with 2 games in hand and play the Vale this Saturday in the Southern Counties Cup semi-final.

Sutton: Feeley (Brookfield), McGee -Capt., Healy (St. Cecilia’s), Hopper (Homefield), Hicks (Robin Hood), Vezzu (The Avenue), Steele, Morcombe (Bandon Hill), Jeevan, Scantlebury (High View), Bannister (Benhilton), Norman, O’Leary-Blade (St. Mary’s), Ilic (Cheam Common)