Hardly End Cup Campaign On A High

Last updated : 31 May 2011 By Dan Buxton

Hardly Athletic got their first cup victory of the season, in their final game, after defeating Division One side Allstars United by three goals to two.

Hardly had Ash Newman between the sticks and the stand in gloveman made some crucial early saves, including a magnificent triple stop to keep the scores deadlocked before eventually conceding shortly before the break when a powerfully struck effort flew into the top corner.

The scores were levelled up shortly after half time when Dan Buxton's pass somehow found its way through a couple of defenders before being tucked away by Matt Young.

Hardly took the lead just minutes later when Buxton played the ball off the wall and Cope was on hand to control and finish past the keeper before Cope doubled the advantage with seven minutes left, picking up a rebound and smashing the ball home.

Allstars gave themselves hope when they netted with three minutes to go but Hardly comfortably held out for three cup points.