From Moston To Milan – FCUM 3-1 Brera Calcio

FC United came from behind under the lights at the Arena Civica in Milan to beat Brera 3-1. Goals from Brera’s Paolo Cataldi and FC’s Ennis, Waddecar and Linney ensured that the Reds retained their 100% record in the competition so far.

The Rebels have set themselves up perfectly for the final stages of this competition, needing only a draw in the reverse fixture against the Milanese club to guarantee progress to the final.

Brera came out of the traps with a point to prove in the early exchanges, winning and converting a penalty putting the Italians 1-0 up. A few moments later, FC would have a penalty of their own, and it would be smartly converted by captain Charlie Ennis.

The Reds then began to attack the game more. A succession of brilliant passing plays disrupted the flow of the home side and allowed more time on the ball in the middle of the park for FC. Shooting towards the travelling faithful, it was only a matter of time before they nudged ahead.

It was Ali Waddecar that would provide the spark for FC in the 33rd minute. He converted smartly after an extended spell of possession proved to be too much for the Brera defence. FC led 1-2 as the players went in for half-time.

Brera started aggressively again in the second half and looked to challenge goalkeeper Harmer a little more, but the FC defence held firm.

Similar to the first-half FC began to play the game at their pace, keeping the ball in that possession-based style that the Reds seem to be most comfortable with.

This would pay off again for FC, as they won another penalty – the third of the game. This time it was converted by the ever-dangerous Regan Linney, putting the away side 1-3 up and all but ensuring passage to the Fenix Trophy finals in Rimini.

Special mention has to be given to the FC United support. It is well documented that for a non-league side, they have some of the best and most active support both on a matchday and outside of the football sphere, but this was a different level.

300 fans on a Wednesday night in Milan is a feat that few clubs above, let alone at FC’s level would match. They didn’t stop singing for the full 90 minutes and were even joined by some of the Brera support.

It is an experience that will live long in the memory of all FC fans and is a great advert for what supporter owned football clubs can achieve, reminding people that there is another way!