Rushden & Diamonds (U18s) 1 v 2 Brighton & Hove Albion (U18's)

Saturday 8th April 2006

The Diamonds were unable to spoil the Brighton Championship party on Saturday as the young Seagulls defeated the Diamonds by a single goal in a good competitive game as they clinched the league title.

This game had been billed as a decider a month ago, however the Diamonds recently had come across some inconsistent performances, which lead to points being lost and therefore this fixture was a day when winners were required.

The game was a tight affair with both sides creating and denying chances at both ends of the pitch in a game where any mistake would prove costly….and they did.

Ricardo Joseph had the 1st half's best opening mid-way through the half when he misplaced from close range leaving the goalkeeper rooted to the spot. With the game looking like it would remain goalless until half time, the seagulls broke free just minutes before the interval to lob home from 18 yards on a counter-attack.

This goal was to prove to be a big test for the Diamonds, who to their credit drew level early in the 2nd half to add pressure on the Seagulls. Jonathon Stead broke free down the right and put a great ball across the goal for Ricky Modeste to joyfully stab home from close range.

The game began to open up as both sides played in an attacking manner. Dominic Langdon, who has just returned following a nasty wound to the leg in a friendly fixture a few weeks back, was cruelly denied from finishing the game, as the same wound opened up following a tackle, which left him very frustrated as he left the pitch.

The game although competitive was fair and the turning point was when the referee pointed to the penalty spot following, what looked a harsh decision on Scott Wark. Despite appeals and feedback the referee was decisive in his decision and therefore Brighton took this opportunity to regain the lead.

This decision certainly frustrated the team and enabled Brighton to regain confidence in believing they could now go on and win the game. The diamonds were becoming frustrated with some decisions and although Scott Wark was late on a tackle the reaction of the opponents stirred the game up to be a tense finish.

Ugo Udoji found himself booked following too much communication to the referee and two other Brighton players also found themselves in the black book.

Sean O'Keefe certainly did not make matters any better when he was sent-off for 'what can only be described as stupidity' as he squared up to an opponent following a challenge.

The game finished like a cup tie with Brighton using the advantage of an extra man by creating some good chances, although Diamonds did have some promising moments themselves.

The game ended with a Win to Brighton, which sealed the title.

Marc Tracy commented 'Obviously I'm disappointed that I'm talking about Discipline first rather than performances. What I saw was not what I want to see again. I understand frustration but what I don't, is lack of discipline. I was annoyed with certain decisions but that does not mean I confront the officials at every opportunity a decision does not go in our favour.

Don't get me wrong, I don't mind an appeal and to seek explanations from the officials but not to hurl abuse, because it can cause, as seen today, us suffer in personnel on the pitch.

'On a positive note, I was pleased with areas of our game and although any defeat is hurtful, I saw some positive displays from individuals.

'Congratulations to Brighton in their success - We just need to ensure we finish the season on a high and finish one place behind them in second, which would be a great achievement!'

Final Score

Rushden & Diamonds 1 - 2 Brighton & Hove Albion