The second Semi-Final was FC Dynamoes versus Lads of Lisboa and would guarantee an English team in the Final. FC Dyanmoes would have been disappointed not to be in the Cup competition and if we ran a betting kiosk at the tournaments we are sure they would have been the favourites to lift the Plate Trophy.

 

That is no disrespect to their opposition who had started the tournament like a train with a comprehensive victory, secured qualification in Round 4 and then ran a Cup team close in the last group game.

 

Another factor to consider in making FC Dynamoes favourites for the overall Plate competition was the goals of Jon Stead. He had 11 to date and lead the Top Goalscorer charts by 1. In this game he all but guaranteed the award. There was two goals in the first half that put FC Dynamoes on their way.

 

The Lads of Lisboa had it all to do and by chasing the game were bound to leave gaps at the back – Stead took advantage for his fourth hat-trick of the tournament adding a 3rd and 4th before being subbed. Presumably to rest him for the Final rather than a reflection on his ability!

 

Dynamoes added a 5th and 6th through Michael Cox and Russell Marsden to rub salt in the Lads of Lisboa wounds. It was a harsh way to go out having offered so much throughout the day and adding much to the tournament. It was a pleasure to meet the Lads of Lisboa on debut and hope there are more European campaigns from them in the future.