Somerset FA U16s capped off an excellent overall win in the Southwest County FA Championship campaign, including victories over Devon and Cornwall, with goals coming from Leo Keheller, Mitch Kearley (2), Jacob Webster, Mohamed Hassam King (2) and Archie Ormerod.
One of the standout moments of the run was a thrilling 3-2 victory away to Cornwall in Newquay.
The squad then quickly turned their attention to the Southwest County Schools Championship.
After a hard-fought 3-2 away win over Gloucestershire — thanks to goals from Mohamed Hassam King, Raffey Watch and Jack Collins — Somerset booked their place in the semi-final against Oxfordshire at Milton United FC.
Travelling away from home with a place in the final at stake, Somerset started brightly.
Raffey Watch, Jacob Webster and Mitch Kearley combined well alongside Mo Hassam King to cause problems for the hosts early on.
Eddie Scarrot and Charlie Dolbear provided good width from the flanks, while captain Charlie Watson, Ollie Legg and Oakley Concannon gave the side a strong spine through the middle.
During a dominant opening spell, both Mo and Mitch went close, with Kearley striking the post after an excellent move.
Oxfordshire gradually worked their way into the contest before the break, but Somerset’s defence stood firm, forcing efforts wide and dealing well with any danger.
The second half opened up, although the game remained evenly balanced.
Archie Ormerod tested the goalkeeper with a fine effort, while Kearley weaved past three defenders before firing narrowly over the bar.
Marcel Pierzchlewicz and Felix Scott battled impressively in midfield as Somerset continued to compete strongly.
The breakthrough eventually came when Oxfordshire were awarded a penalty, which they converted to take a 1-0 lead.
Somerset responded positively, introducing Jack Collins, Ferran McAdams and Lucas Abreu, all of whom brought fresh energy to the game.
With 12 minutes remaining, the hosts doubled their advantage after a powerful run forward made it 2-0.
Despite the setback, Somerset refused to give in.
Pierzchlewicz was pushed further forward, while McAdams and Scott increased the attacking pressure.
Legg and Dolbear also stepped higher up the pitch as Somerset searched for a way back.
The comeback began when Pierzchlewicz finished crisply to make it 2-1 and ignite renewed belief.
Somerset were suddenly on top, winning corners and free kicks as Oxfordshire struggled to handle the momentum.
Then came the equaliser.
Reacting quickest to a loose second ball, Pierzchlewicz struck low beneath the goalkeeper to level the match at 2-2.
The penalty shootout provided even more drama, including retakes and a series of excellent finishes from both sides.
In the end, Somerset held their nerve, showing tremendous character to win on the 12th penalty.
Man of the Match honours were shared between Marcel Pierzchlewicz for his two outstanding goals and Oakley Concannon for two crucial penalty saves.
Somerset now look ahead to the final, where they will face Dorset County.
Thank you Ross Cox Plumbing & Heating and Team UCS College Group for sponsoring.
Squad list: Oakley Concannon, Mohammed Hassan King, Archie Omerod, Ferran McAdams, Jack Collins, Lucas Abreu, Felix Scott, Marcel Pierzchlewicz, Raffey Watch, Eddie Scarrott, Charlie Dolbear, Mitch Kearley, Jacob Webster, Ollie Legg, Lucas Southall, Charlie Watson #captain.
Share