Round one of the Bernard Martin Cup saw mixed results for Nelson Cavaliers with the first team winning 8-1 against The Village while the seconds lost 5-2 to Hopkinstown on October 4.
The first goal against The Village came after fifteen minutes from a short corner that was flicked on by Ryan Donovan for Tom Woods to score from close range.
Two more goals were scored quickly by Ben Banks and Ryan Donovan to put the Cavs in total control. The intensity for the rest of the half dropped a bit but Nelson still had more chances to go further ahead.
The Village pulled a goal back with a penalty but this woke Nelson up who again took control and scored some nice goals with some decent football.
Adding to the tally was a second for Tom Woods and Ryan Donovan, an own goal and a quick fire double from Hayden Pitt.
The score line against Hopkinstown did not reflect what was a true cup tie.
Nelson battled and fought for everything only to come away with a cup exit.
It could have been so different as Nelson lined up against a good side from the division above that have started the season strongly.
Nelson started the brighter and played with high intensity, forcing the opposition into errors.
Some early pressure saw Nelson get a corner that was whipped in brilliantly by Keenan, causing havoc in the box and Hopkinstown handled the ball for an early penalty. Callum stepped up and coolly slotted the ball into the top corner.
Nelson continued to press with Hopkinstown being reduced to some long range efforts.
More pressure saw the keeper slice a clearance straight to Matthew who calmly dribbled up and slotted it home for 2.0, but Hopkinstown got a goal back before half time.
The second half saw Nelson defending for there life and when they were broken down Alex was in great form and not allowing anything past him.
Nelson, however, were under constant pressure with no escape but with only 10 minutes to go when a bit of luck was needed it didn’t come.
Hopkinstown had another attack, the player was tackled but the ball ricochet back into his path and it was smashed into the top corner to equalise.
It looked like extra time was looming but a marvellous bit of individual skill saw Hopkinstown score with only minutes left.
Nelson pushed everyone up and a couple of last minute break away goals made the score line flattering.