Exeter City ACFC were dramatically knocked out in the Semi Final of The Ability Counts National Finals on penalties.

The Championship team had played 26 matches, losing only twice in the season to take their place in the Finals held at The David Beckham Academy in London.

Their first match put them against Pheonix FC from Birmingham, who have not been beaten all season, drawing 1-1.

Their second game come against a tough Northampton Town, which Exeter ACFC fought hard and won 1-0 and the final group match saw them play against Bell Vue, and in a one sided game they come out 2-0 winners, however Exeter ACFC could of scored many more.

Exeter City ACFC finished as runners-up in their group on goal difference, commencing to the Semi-Final against Sheffield CP.

The match was a tough game with Sheffield taking the lead against the run of play but Exeter City ACFC rallied together and got the equaliser they deserved. The second half saw a close game with both teams having chances but neither team could take their chances.

Extra time commenced with Sheffield having the better of it, and Exeter ACFC held on to take the match to penalties.

Each team had to take three each, with Sheffield going 1st, They missed and Exeter ACFC scored. The second saw a reversal making it 1-1. The third Sheffield penalty was saved and just needed Exeter ACFC to score, but the crossbar got in the way to take the game to sudden death.

Sheffield scored theirs, and Exeter City ACFC stepped up and missed taking Sheffield to the Final. All the players gave all the effort and it was a good experience for all involved. But we will be back next year!!The season starts again in September and we are looking for new players and coaches to join us. If you are interested in playing coaching for Exeter City ACFC then please call Paul Clements on 07792 910802

Training Mondays at King George V Playing field, Exeter. 2.00pm to 3.30pm.Wednesday at Dawlish Leisure Centre, Grass area. 6.00pm to 7.30pm.

Both cost £3 per session. Squad: Dave Ellis, Ian Williams, Peter Williams, Toby Williams, Dan Williams, Phil Harris, Ian Way, Wayne Down, Martin Butt, Brian Thomas, Andrew Cutting.