In what turned out to be a pulsating and hugely competitive match Forfar Farmington U17’s scored a late extra-time winner against a tough Hibernian side to book their place in the semi-finals of the League Cup.
It was with great anticipation that the coaches and players from Forfar Farmington U17s prepared for their League Cup quarter final tie. The draw had paired them with what might be described as a plum tie against the very powerful Hibernian U17 and after having suffered a pre-season friendly defeat to them it was a further chance for our girls to show the progress they have made since that match.
The girls from Edinburgh showed their class and organisation as a team from the off as they looked to establish their pressing and passing game. They gained the upper hand in the opening exchanges however Farmington were determined and competitive as they managed to keep any attempts on their goal restricted to long range efforts. Forfar almost snatched the lead form a corner however the break that resulted from that led to the opening goal for Hibs. A beautiful pass through the Forfar defence was picked up by a Hibs attacker who pushed through on goal before placing an angled shot into the far corner.
Going behind seemed to galvanise Forfar and their efforts to get back in the game saw them carve out three excellent chances. Through a combination of good defending by Hibs and Forfar’s misfortune saw our girls remain a goal down until the last minute of the first half. Phillipa McCallum swung in a vicious corner right on top of the Hibs keeper. The ball broke in the six yard box where Steffi Simpson was waiting to fire home a timely goal as her strike proved to be the last kick of the first half.
The second half saw Hibs dominate the possession at times but without carving out any real chances. Forfar continued to defend very well and their counter-attacking saw them almost take the lead on a few occasions. As the game moved towards extra time you could see Forfar’s confidence growing as was their belief that they could achieve a notable victory against one of Scotland’s top sides.
The match ended 1-1 after 90 minutes meaning extra-time awaited.
Both sides had chances to nick the match however it was with 2 minutes to go in the second period of extra time that Forfar struck. The ball was played up to the left hand side of the Hibs half and then across the centre circle to where Kacey McCabe was waiting. Kacey decided to try her luck and she hit a speculative effort goalward from inside the centre circle. Her strike soared high in the air towards goal. The Hibs goalie seemed to misjudge its flight and in doing so she allowed it to bounce in front of and then over her into the empty net. An incredible finish to the match with an extraordinary goal sealing the victory for Forfar Farmington.
This was a superb victory for the girls, after an excellent start to the season this result will build their confidence further. They now move on to the semi-final with increased belief that they can compete with anyone on the day.
Huge thanks to all players and coaches from Hibs who contributed so much to an excellent cup-tie. We wish you all the best for the rest of your season.