Skip to main content

Kirkby United v Britannia

6.30pm  24 April 2015

Furness Premier League, Premier Division
Kirkby United 2 Britannia 3 (att 46)

It was a wet and rather chilly evening in south Cumbria, but despite the conditions this match provided great entertainment that reminded me why I enjoy this hobby so much.

Going into this, their final game of the season, Britannia knew a victory would give them the three points they needed to be champions. Anything less and rivals Barrow Celtic would be able to overtake them by winning their remaining fixture.

At the final whistle Britannia where champions, but Kirkby United pushed them all the way, in a game that in terms of quality was a credit to the Furness Premier League.

The visitors started well, hitting the frame of the goal twice before taking a 17th minute lead. Their lead lasted just two minutes and, having drawn level, Kirkby were  the better side for the rest of the half, spurning two great opportunities to go in front.

Britannia were better after the half-time break, perhaps realising their chance of a title was danger of slipping. They went in front thanks to a 49th minute penalty, softly awarded for handball, and quickly added a decisive third.

Kirkby pulled one back towards the end, setting up a great finish as they pushed forward for an equaliser, cheered on by a group of spectators who I assume must have been Barrow Celtic players. It wasn't to be though, and despite a few scares at the back Britannia held on to win.

Kirkby United's pitch is shared with the local cricket club, which might explain why this game was on a Friday evening. A pavilion houses the changing rooms, and has a covered area to the front which provided shelter from the rain for some spectators. The pitch, which looks well-maintained, isn't roped or railed off, but there's dugouts on the far side.










Comments