In the Press

Reading Evening Post 16/1/01

Bowden's the hero as Ruscombe reach final

RFC 1st XI - Goalkeeper Robert Bowden was the hero for Ruscombe as he saved two penalties in as shoot-out with Reading Gas to earn his side a place in the Industrial Cup Final against Purley Jubilee.

Ruscombe drew 2-2 after extra time in their semi-final at Victoria Recreation Ground, Tilehurst before emerging winners 6-5 on penalties.  Ruscombe held the upper hand for most of the tie, but found Gas keeper Jamie Knox in stunning form.  Danny Isaiew and Nick Rolls netted for Ruscombe, while Adam Mugford and Michael Hancock replied.  The soot-out was still 4-4 after 5 penalties and it needed sudden death to separate the sides.  Chris Maxted, James Hollidge, Isaiew and Richard Lawrence netted for Ruscombe, while Mark Oldfield put his effort over the bar.  Paul O'Boyle, Graham Queripel, Hancock, and Andy Bullett responded with Gas's penalties, but Phil Arden had his attempt  saved by Bowden.  Rolls and Kevin Rapley, whose shot just crept under Knox, kept Ruscombe in front.  Mark Lemm netted for Gas before Steve Parkes had his effort saved by Bowden to seal victory.

RFC Reserves - "Forest lost ground after being beaten 4-3 at home against Ruscombe despite goals from Ryan Summer (2)  and Mark Folley.  Ali Collie (3) and Ali Grant netted for Ruscombe, whose star performer was Alex Neall.