Summer Sizzler 2023

Hatches Farm Sports Ground once again hosted the AFC Foresters Annual Summer Sizzler with a record turnout of 8 teams, playing in a Round Robin Tournament. 

In scorching hot weather the stage was set for an exhilarating day of tournament football tournament. 

The 8 teams consisted of players from AFC Foresters, ranging from the young to the old, plus friends, and family. The tournament was played in a friendly yet fiercely competitive spirit, with Hythe Hotspurs entering as the pre-tournament favourites, closely followed by the experienced Wellow Coaches.

All the round-robin matches featured tightly contested encounters, with each team giving their all on the field. The spectators were treated to thrilling displays of skill, passion, and teamwork from all the participating teams. Despite the favourites’ tag, Hythe Hotspurs faced tough challenges from the other teams, and every match was a closely fought battle.

After the conclusion of the round-robin stage, the final standings were as follows:

The top four teams advanced to the playoffs for the final stages of the tournament. In the playoffs, Hythe Hotspurs managed to edge out Wellow Coaches in a closely contested match that went down to penalties. Both teams showcased their skills and determination, but it was Hythe Hotspurs who held their nerve to secure the victory.

In the other playoff match, Leeverham United faced Melchet Forest in another closely fought encounter. United winning with Pollard grabbing the only goal to secure United’s place in the final.

The bronze medal match saw Wellow Coaches and Melchet Forest battling it out, and with nothing to separate them after extra time failed to produce a winner. The match was eventually decided by a penalty shootout, and it was Wellow Coaches who prevailed to take the honours.

The highly anticipated final between Hythe Hotspurs and Leeverham United turned out to be a tense and nervy affair. Both teams had their chances to settle the match in normal time, but the defences held strong, and the game went into extra time. Even in the additional period, neither side could break the deadlock, leading to the inevitable penalty shootout.

In the penalty shootout, it was Leeverham United who held their nerve and emerged as the champions, leaving the Hythe Hotspurs disappointed. The final was a testament to the skill and determination displayed by both teams throughout the tournament.

Special mention to the United duo OF Treweeks, Amber and Rob who ended the day with the Golden Boot and Rob unbeaten between the sticks. 

Thanks to all the participants, helpers (and photographs - Marion and Adam in the Foresters Blimp) that made it a successful and enjoyable day.  

All eyes now for the Winter Warmer event in December.