Presteigne Reserves’ manager Mark Weiland has been reflecting on his side’s win in the Builth Spa Cup final – their second trophy success in seven days.
Spencer Napolitano scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory for the Ressies who successfully defended the cup in what were testing conditions for both sides.
“It was a scorching day and so it was hard for both sides in the heat,” said Mark.
“We were on top throughout the first half with Duane Anning and Danny Evans both hitting the bar.
“Spencer Napolitano had a glorious chance, but put his effort wide of the target, then ‘Rambo’ [Anthony Vernalls] had to pull off a decent save which he tipped over the bar.
“Half-time came and all the lads knew we were on top and it was only going to be a matter of time.
“The second half started quite evenly but we still had most of the possession and eventually we took the lead about half way through the half.
“I swung in a corner and an attempted overhead kick from Spencer Napolitano didn’t go quite to plan but there was then a bit of a goalmouth scramble from which Spencer did drill the ball home.
“It was hard in the last 20 minuest with legs starting to tire and it seemed to get warmer and it became harder when the referee Rob Evans sent Danny Evans.
“Danny got his marching orders for a second yellow after he stood on a Builth free kick which they tried to take quickly.
“We had to reshuffle and brought on Richard Wilding to help the cause as Builth then threw everything at us with long throws and corners coming in fast and furious.
“Bobby Bird had to clear a header of the line and we defended really well although the final whistle came as a relief as extra time would have been a struggle.
“It was a brilliant day and I would like to thank all the supporters who came up to watch.
“We’ve had a brilliant season with a third place finish in the Mid Wales League (South) as well as reaching the last four of the J Emrys Morgan Cup.
“It will be good to have both the Radnor Valley and Builth Spa Cups on the table for the dinner and it gives us something to build on for next season.”