Alexandra won in a thrilling penalty shoot-out with Ryan Wheeler scoring the winning spot-kick. Dexter Ruddy saved a penalty in the shoot-out having taken the gloves from the excellent Dougie Bick for the deciding kicks.
In normal time Buckswood applied a torrent of early pressure but Alexandra stood firm, the defence was expertly marshalled by a very impressive Sam Banfield. Buckswood did break the deadlock after 15 minutes with a well-placed shot into the bottom corner, which left Bick with no chance.
Team Alexandra were restricted to counter attacks and although Sonny Tyrrell did his best to work the front line, he was often unsupported as Alexandra tried to push up in support. On the occasions Team Alexandra were able to get more attackers forward, they looked dominant. Sammy Al-Amoodi chased a long ball, pressurising the Buckswood goalkeeper into an error, which resulted in Sammy gaining possession and having an open goal to shoot into. The Buckswood goalkeeper tried to make up for losing possession but could only foul Sammy in the process, resulting in a penalty. Sonny Tyrrell made no mistake from the spot.
The second half was more even but neither goalkeeper was really tested.
Sonny Tyrrell, Ethan Parkin, Ollie Jones, Stan Histed and Ryan Wheeler all scored their penalties and with Dexter saving one – Alexandra were crowned Hastings and Rother District Cup Winners for 2025.
Other squad members – Sonny Nailor, Kass Njie, Charlie Ryan, Blake Baldwin, Charlie Malton, Roman Nadiri, Archie Gunn, Riley Clark.
Congratulations Team Alexandra.
