Published: Thursday, 7th May, 2009 2:00pm

Drama in Dons victory

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Football

A DRAMATIC final saw AFC Donsville Reserves triumph 3-1 after extra time over Nine Stiles who ended the game with nine men at Stag Meadow.

During an even first half Nine Stiles took the lead in the 40th minute but there was still time for the Dons to level before the interval when James Seymour netted after his initial shot hit the post.

After the break, Donsville were on top but could not convert their chances and it took a great save from Darren Evans to keep the scores level.

With just minutes remaining, the Dons earned a penalty but Matt Goodlad's spot kick was excellently saved to send the game into an extra 30 minutes.

Extra time was full of drama and Paul Reed was the hero, scoring two bullet headers while Nine Stiles had two men sent off.

Manager Wesley De Souza was full of praise for his side and said: "The team really showed everyone what we are capable of achieving. We defended as a team and attacked as a team. The energy levels were there from start to finish.

"I would like to thank everyone who came to support us and first team manager Neil Messham for helping out with coaching the boys over the last couple of weeks. We worked on a few bits in the week and it was pleasing to see it work with the third goal.

"The whole squad should be proud as they have all played their part. We have such a young squad and each season they are improving and learning."

He added: "We have raised the bar for ourselves and hopefully, this cup will be the first of many."