The 2010 Algarve Open Plate Final was to be contested by Vodafone FC and Chingford Athletic. On a warm day both teams had played 6 games to reach this stage and they would need to muster the energy for one last push to make sure it was lucky game 7 for them.

As the game started it was Vodafone FC who looked as if they would claim the Plate title as Mohamed Swatti scored his third and fourth goals of the tournament to open up a 2-0 lead. Chingford Athletic would not roll over and showed the fight and spirit that had got them to the final when James Goodbun and Matt Thompson fired them back level at 2-2.

The momentum was with Chingford Athletic but Vodafone FC steadied the ship and as we entered the final minutes the game was anyone's for the taking and extra time looked a strong possibility. In the last minute Vodafone FC won a free kick just outside the Chingford Athletic penalty area. Matt Hall lay the ball off to his left and it was inch perfect for Mark Dunbar to rifle in the winner. We then heard the cry from Vodafone keeper Renato Bottini, with shades of Alf Ramsey, that “we've already won this game once, let's not let it slip again.” They didn't let it slip again as there was barely time for Chingford to mount another attack.

A great victory for Vodafone FC and a great way to win it. You had to feel sorry for Chingford Athletic who had put a great deal of effort into their challenge all day and also for fighting back in this final. Unfortunately it was to no avail. They had runners-up medals to cushion the blow a little and there is surely glory awaiting them at future eurofootballfives.com tournaments.

This year though, the glory, the trophy and the winners medals go to Vodafone FC. Well done lads.