Ben Rhydding 3 Alderley Edge 3

Ben Rhydding put on a final performance that reflected the huge progress they have made over the last two seasons.

They went into the game top of the North Men's Premier League form table with their opponents in second place, so it always promised to be a great game.

Rhydding began in excellent style, keeping the ball endlessly and patiently stroking it around the back half of the pitch.

Josh Sykes was magnificent at centre half showing real class and composure and Ali Jordan caused Alderley all sorts of problems with his endless running.

A goal for Alderley against the run of play was hard to bear but Rhydding had let chances go begging.

However, Rhydding were quickly back in the game with an incredible drag flick from the talented Will Musgrave.

It was Musgrave who provided the immaculate service that he has given all season with a trademark cross into the area for Danny Foster who always delivers the goods in front of goal.

Rhydding took control and began to accelerate the game. Callum Connor provided a real physical presence and Kieran Borrett was a handful in midfield.

Andy Clemerson’s accomplished skills kept the ball flowing and Alderley struggled to get near the play. Dave Exley looked unbeatable at the back and Neil Sugden, bravely mopped up everything that came at him.

David Carter in goal showed some remarkable timing in winning the ball in messy situations and was a class act.

Rhydding went 3-1 up when Connor threaded a beautiful ball through and Harry Sherlock selflessly bounced the ball to the danger area for Foster to finish again.

At 3-1 ahead Rhydding looked to have sealed the win but Alderley drew a goal back.

In the last minute the visitors converted a corner and a fourth-place finish slipped through Ben Rhydding’s fingers.