Pixham Lane played host to its final fixture of the calendar year as Dorkinians First Team secured a spot in the semi-finals of the SAL Senior Cup. After taking an early lead from a smart Andy Sears-Black finish, Dorkinians lead was quickly doubled via a low driven strike from winger Sam Rowley.

Dorkinians were dominant in the early exchanges, with both goals following excellent assists first from a characteristic Phil Robinson dribble and low driven cross, before a Tan King flick-on from a throw-in.

The home teams ascendancy flowed across the pitch, with the no-nonsense backline subduing a NUFC Oilers attacking unit that had caused issues in their previous meeting back in November. Momentum only swung back in Oilers favour thanks to a devastating penalty decision, that saw Robinson penalised for being kicked himself clearing the ball. Oilers number nine stroked the penalty home to half the deficit going into half time.

In the second period the game flipped on its head, this time seeing Oilers enjoy more consistent possession higher up the pitch with Dorkinians forced to soak up pressure and settle for counter attacking opportunities. Parity was restored between the teams around the hour mark, with the Oilers number nine doubling his tally from the penalty spot again.

Despite both teams now trying to land the knock out blow, it looked almost inevitable the game would drift into extra-time. However, from the most unlikely of sources, Dorkinians found their match winner in the dying embers of the game. An uncleared corner was recycled beautifully by centre-forward Cai La Trobe Roberts, who’s low driven goal bound strike was expertly turned home by Stan Cunningham, for his first goal in his four-year Dorkinians career. Dorkinians now await other results to learn of their opponent in the semi-final of the competition.

The victory capped off what has been a memorable 2025 at Pixham Lane, with this season in particular playing host to six consecutive games that have had at least five goals scored in them. We look forward to continuing the campaign in the new year, and hopefully continuing to entertain the loyal fanbase acquired over the years.

One final trip awaits midweek with a trip to high-flying Godalming Town in the Surrey Premier Cup.