Ely City Win Knock-Out Cup After Penalty Shoot-Out

RIDGEONS LEAGUE FIRST DIVISION KNOCK-OUT CUP FINAL

ELY claimed the First Division Knock-Out Cup for the third time in nine seasons after a thrilling penalty shoot-out.

Halstead had enjoyed the advantage of Mildenhall's notorious slope in the opening 45 minutes of the match, but City's defence was relatively untroubled until the closing seconds of the half when Brady Stone cleared Lou Harper's shot off the line with Lee Pacey beaten.

Ely drew first blood at the start of the second period however, with defender Ben Lawrence diverting a free-kick past the 'keeper through a crowded goalmouth.

Halstead hit back almost immediately, Chris Bryan driving in Harper's cross at the far post to make it all square.

City had the majority of possession thereafter - including through extra-time - but neither side could break the deadlock so it all came down to a penalty shoot-out.

Danny Powell, Bryan, John Pollard and Steve Daly were all successful for Halstead, and Tom Pell, Dave Smith, Robbie Mason and Brady Stone were the players on target for Ely as the scores reached 4-4.

City captain Simon Warren then missed his side's fifth attempt, leaving young Danny Cooper the chance to win it for Halstead.

Pacey saved his effort at the foot of the post however, and penalties were then scored by Mark Johnston (Ely) and Steff Falla before Dave Daniels netted to make it 6-5 to the Robins.

Wayne Saunders then stepped up for Halstead's seventh spot-kick of the night, but he was denied by Pacey again as Ely celebrated a First Division promotion and Knock-Out Cup double for the second time in their history.