For the first time in the history of the club, Cardiff Met FC have qualified for the Europa League after losing narrowly in the final for the past two years. Met overcame Bala Town FC 3-1 in a penalty shootout, after drawing 1-1 in full-time. Whether you travelled to Maes Tegid, or watched live on S4C, the boys provided you with the only nail-biting drama of Sunday afternoon.
Photo Credit: Matthew Lofthouse
Bala took an early lead at the 20-minute mark, with Henry Jones making it 1-0 after our very own Eliot Evans hit the posts from a header. Yet, Evans was quick to respond, after finishing a low cross from the left from Joel Edwards. The second half saw both sides struggle to convert their chances at goal, with Kenleigh Owen and golden boy Will Fuller defending multiple shots each. Fulltime confirmed that the play-off would enter extra time and play looked tiresome for both squads. Chris Baker took a chance to go 2-1 but sadly hit the cross bar. Bala looked to confirm their place in the Europa League with a shot from 20 yards out, however, ‘MVP’ Fuller spoilt their chances and the score remained level ending extra time – a first time for a European Playoff! Unsurprisingly, the drama didn’t stop there. The penalty shootouts saw Fuller save the first two of Bala’s shots, with the third going over. This put the nail in the coffin for Bala and allowed Evans to end the game 3-1 on penalties for Met!
Edward’s side now join Cardiff Met WFC in their European tour, and head into two-preliminary rounds – playing June 27th?and July 4th.