Kieran Baldwin looks back at UEL’s tough semi-final Cup defeat…
The University of East London missed out on a place in the final of the British University and College Sports Trophy last week, after they were knocked out of the semi-finals by a 2-1 defeat to the University of Essex 1st.
The exit from the Cup means their wait for that prized elusive league and cup double will have to be reattempted next year.
East London goalkeeper Ritchie Robins spoke to Rising East about the disappointment of the defeat: “We’re absolutely gutted about getting knocked out. They were a very well organised side.”
“We previously took four points off them in the league this season but in a one off game, anything can happen.” Robins continued.
Looking forward
It was UEL’s first defeat of 2016 and only their second defeat of the season, breaking an incredible run of nine games unbeaten with seven wins and two draws.
UEL suffered a similar fate last season, as they were knocked out by eventual winners, the University of Portsmouth in the quarter-finals.
Despite momentum being lost by the defeat Robins’ remains positive about the playoff match, which could see them promoted to the top BUCS league the Southern Premier division.
“We have a very talented squad but now it’s up to us individually and collectively to show some character and bounce back and win the play-off”.
UEL 1st will now look to find some form ahead of their important play-off, with their final league game away to the University of Kent 1st and end their successful league campaign on a high.