The Premier League rushed it through to a conclusion in August, BJFL gave up back in March, but the Derby Girls and Ladies League carry on to the bitter end, so...

Here, on a bright 12th September afternoon, while the Premier League kick off their 20-21 season, the remaining Outwoods FC fixture of a Covid ravaged 19-20 season kicks off at Derby racecourse, there is still the chance of silverware….

Outwoods U12’s Swans are still in the hunt for a trophy at their cup final against the mighty Derby County.

Throughout the match Outwoods Swans dominate the possession but cannot manage to get the ball in the back of the Derby net. The Derby team create the better chances, but are kept from scoring by poor finishing and a superb Outwoods Swans keeper. However, just as it looks like ending 0-0…..

Penalty!! Are Derby going to steal the match inside the last 5 minutes.

The ref sets up the penalty, explains to all the rules he expects to be adhered to, keeper must stay on the line, no encroachment by the other players etc etc.

The Derby player stands over the ball then hits a powerful shot. The keeper had no chance but fortunately for her the shot was dragged just left of the Outwoods goal, you can feel the relief from the Outwoods dugout. A frantic last few minutes ensue and both teams have chances, still at 0-0 however, the ref blows the final whistle.

Penalties !!

The Outwoods Manager protects his keeper by picking the goal with the bright sunshine behind them.

Derby to go first, 3 penalties each

Penalty 1 Derby: Keeper dives to left pushes ball onto the post, great save.

Penalty 2 Outwoods: Keeper dives to the right, another great save.

Penalty 3 Derby: Aims high, keeper stands her ground but the ball brushes her fingers and ends up in the back of the net. 1-0

Penalty 4 Outwoods: Powerful shot high and down the middle, keeper again gets finger tips to it but it hits the net. 1-1

Penalty 5 Derby: Powerful shot, just left of the keeper, what a save by the Outwoods keeper, superb.

Penalty 6 Outwoods: Player steps up, no sign of any pressure, one shot between Outwoods and a Trophy, a short run up and a powerful shot to the top left hand corner, keeper has no chance 2-1 Outwoods

The Manager, players and the supporters cheer and jump with joy, the silverware is coming home. Well done to Paul Smith, his coaching team and most importantly the U12’s Swans !!

A great end to the 19-20 season.

Derby who?.....