Manchester City 2 Denton Town 1 (U11's C/Cup Final)

Hey girls, got to say you were awesome today. What a cracking little team you are. I know you're disappointed to lose today, but you've won THE DOUBLE. You have PROVED beyond doubt, that you are THE VERY BEST UNDER 11's TEAM around. Didn't lose a game all season - just BRILLIANT!

Just my overview on the match today, without going into to much detail - that's Allen's job.

Early doors we bombarded City and were clearly on top, and Gaby's goal was well deserved. From that point to the end of the 1st half, you should of been 2 or 3 goals to the good, but their keeper was outstanding. Start of the 2nd half, and City draw level within seconds of the restart, and for a while after that, you seemed nervous, lost your composure a bit, and it took a while for you to get it back. I thought the penalty was maybe a little harsh, but the ref was much closer, so I'll go with her decision. Fantastic save by Nikkia who was quickly mobbed by the relieved Denton players. We went on to have chance after chance, but once again, the City keeper was upto the task and made some world class saves to deny us time and time again - several league officials and the local councillor said the same. This was despite their keeper getting an injury which reduced her to tears for a while. Nikkia also got an injury to her hand, and eventually had to be replaced by Molly. The killer blow came in the final few seconds of the match, and it was a real sickener, as moments before we almost scored ourselves.

Disappointed that the ref thought the match was 25 mins each way, but when I corrected her, she was wrong to play 30 mins in the 2nd half. The rules state that each half should be equal, so although the initial mistake was made, the 2nd half should of lasted only 25 mins to match the first. Would if of made any difference? Who knows, City could of won it in extra-time, or maybe us. We'll never know, and I'm certainly not one for making excuses. Good luck to City, they worked hard, and it went for them today.

There were tears at full time, and some were inconsolable, which of course I understand, but any team in the league would of swapped places with you today, including City. You've won the double, which is a tremendous achievement.

Fantastic to see you all celebrating with the Finalist Trophy, spraying champagne, throwing water, have a bit of fun and a laugh etc etc. I didn't get any champagne for the 14's or 12's finals, so you're one up on them in that respect.

I really enjoyed myself today, as you are a really cool group of girls, (as are all the girls at Denton Town), and you made me feel most welcome.

Thanks.

NIGEL.

p.s. Just come off the phone from Alan Brewer (14's manager). He said he feels for you but that you should remember you're double winners and have had a great season.