Birmingham AFA - Double success as Silhill make finals

Feb 13 2008

THIS season's Birmingham Junior Cup competition has been dominated by AFA sides, who provided all four semi-finalists.

Silhill celebrated reaching the final for the first time in their 100-year history after edging out Division One rivals Resolution.

A shock appeared possible when Gareth Wilkes fired Resolution in front before half-time.

Chris Kavanagh headed Silhill level and then played a key role in their winner when he fired in a free-kick that was deflected home by a Resolution defender.

Silhill now face Billesley United in the final, which will take place at Ray Hall Lane on March 29.

Billesley booked their final place by beating fellow AFA Premier side Handsworth GSOB 3-1 following extra time.

It was a good weekend for Silhill, who also reached the AFA's Minor Cup Final thanks to a 4-2 success over Cresconians.

They now face Village in the final, Michael Ball booking their passage by scoring the only goal in their 1-0 success over Shirley Athletic.

Both St Francis and Shirley Athletic progressed in the AFA Senior Cup, along with holders Wake Green.

Greg Sharpe struck twice, with Tim Sullivan netting a third, as St Francis secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Erin Go Bragh, who replied with a double strike from Marcus Brown.

Shirley beat Old Wulfrunians 4-2, which included two goals from Scott Kyte.

Wake Green eased past fellow Premier side Boldmere 3-1.

Premier Division leaders Village were held to a 1-1 draw by third-placed Sutton United.

It means unbeaten Village have drawn five of their last six games.

Second-placed AFC Lakin have closed the gap to just two points following a 6-1 win over bottom side Woodbourne, where Gareth Parfitt grabbed a hat-trick.