After FNF Blacks gained a walkover victory against Sabden, the equation was simple: the winner of this game would qualify for the Grand Final. A 0-0 or 1-1 draw would’ve sent FNF Blacks through on goal difference, while a 2-2 draw would’ve forced a FNF derby playoff.
On a winner-takes-all night, Rimington named a strong side despite a few late dropouts. FNF Whites were forced into changes, with regular keeper Charlie Shaw sidelined by a broken finger and Alex Palffy stepping in between the sticks despite a hamstring niggle.
Rimington started the stronger, with Palffy making early saves—particularly from Lloyd. But on 12 minutes, Lloyd broke the deadlock with a composed strike to give the tangerine men the lead.
FNF Whites responded with chances for Boyle and Musker, but Rimington looked threatening every time they came forward. On 18 minutes, Palffy parried a decent shot only for Allen to pounce and poke home a second.
Just minutes later, Musker had a golden opportunity. Sent through by Sergeant, he slid it under the keeper, but ‘Deco’ Roberts cleared off the line.
The second half began cagily. Five minutes in, Warriner picked out Boyle, whose shot flashed just over. The signs were there, but FNF Whites couldn’t make them count. Musker saw another chance saved after a tidy move from Boyle and Warriner.
More chances came and went—Boyle, Musker, and Cunningham all linking up—but the final touch was missing.
The final act came from a corner. With no thoughts of seeing the game out quietly, Rimington delivered one last dagger. Lloyd ghosted in at the back post and nodded home his second to seal a 3-0 win.
Rimington now march into the Grand Final on August 1st, hoping to go one better than Waddington last year by toppling Roefield.
The group stage once again proved to be a triumph—competitive, entertaining, and unpredictable. A few different results and it could’ve been a completely different final. FNF continues to give local lads something to look forward to on and off the pitch.
