The 2017 Vilnius Tournament Plate Final would be contested by LMH FC and 3 Lions FC. Let's have a look at the two teams in a little more detail:

LMH FC:

LMH FC were unbeaten so far. They had a record today of 1 win and 5 draws in 6 games with 2 penalty shoot-out victories helping them to this stage. They were about to play in their first European final with a goal difference of +3 for the tournament. They had scored 8 goals, conceded 5 and achieved two clean sheets to date.

3 Lions FC:

3 Lions FC did have one defeat so far but they also secured more victories. Their record read 3 wins, 2 draws and 1 defeat (to Funfoot). They also had a goal difference of +3 with 9 goals for and 6 against. Goalkeeper David Hillman could boast 4 clean sheets in 6 games. In the knock-out phase they had scored 5 goals without reply.

The first half was a cagey affair and there was little to choose between the two teams but we did get an early goal. The goal went to Rex Worth and what a time to get it! He did have 2 successful penalties in the shoot-outs and now had a goal in open play to add to his tournament record. The first half continued to be close and evenly contested. There was no further addition to the score and we reached the break with LMH FC continuing to lead 1-0.

3 Lions FC had competed in a Plate Final before. Back in 2008 they competed in the Barca Fives where they lead 1-0 before going down 3-1. They would hope they could reverse that here in Vilnius. They needed goals but the second half was more of the same with largely a midfield battle between two well matched teams of similar ability. If you missed the opening goal you would think this was a game heading to penalties. As much as 3 Lions FC tried they were unable to get back on level terms. LMH FC started the day with 2 x clean sheets (for Michael Grogan) and would end it with a clean sheet (for Johnny Lunn). The strong defensive performance ensured it would be LMH FC who were victorious at the final whistle.

It was a second Plate Final defeat for 3 Lions FC and we hoped it would be third time lucky for them. They are looking to join us at one or both of next year's Riga Tournament and/or Algarve Open. We hope to see them then.

The success and glory of today's Plate competition went to LMH FC who collected the team winners' trophy and individual medals in our presentation. It was a great performance for them not only to finish as Plate winners but also to finish with an unbeaten record.