MINEHEAD U12 Blues beat Ruishton Rattlesnakes at home following a penalty shootout in the opening round of the Taunton Youth League’s KO Cup.

Ruishton struck first in the 3rd minute, taking advantage of an unsettled Minehead team. The Ruishton corner was struck perfectly, enabling their player running into the box to slot home.

Following this Minehead settled and for the remainder of the first half both teams were fairly matched, but with limited opportunities to score for either team.

For the second half, Ruishton came out of blocks at full pace and put Minehead under sustained pressure. A number of good saves were needed by Minehead keeper Lou, including one he had to tip over the bar. Minehead’s time came in the 18th minute of the second half when a free kick opportunity arose for midfielder Leon. Hitting the ball with clout from some 45 yards out, the ball was unstoppable and sunk in the back of the net for an equaliser.

This swung the momentum in Minehead’s favour and during the closing moments they had further opportunities, but unfortunately that final goal didn’t come so the match went to penalties.

Minehead defender Buddy scored the first penalty, then Minehead keeper Lou stood tall in his goal to save Ruishton’s first. Taking Minehead’s second was forward Henry who also scored, whiet Ruishton’s second hit the bar. Going to the third penalty Minehead were 2-0 up, but Minehead’s third was saved while Ruishton’s was scored, bringing the score back to 2-1. For the fourth penalty, midfielder Riley scored for Minehead, shortly followed by another Ruishton score. Going to the fifth penalty at 3-2 to Minehead, midfielder Leon needed to score to seal the victory and he slotted the ball past the Ruishton keeper to seal the deal for Minehead.

Parents player of the match: Leon; Coaches’ player of the match: Lou.