Croydon Schools' Football Association's Under-12 borough side were on the losing end of a 2-1 scoreline against Mid Sussex Schools in the semi-final of the South East Schools' Football Patrick Haugh Trophy competition at Hassocks Football Club, writes David Lomas.

The Croydon Boys bossed their opponents in the first 15 minutes and the Sussex team rarely got into Croydon's half.

Daniel Aldous (Edenham) put in a great tackle to deny Mid Sussex going ahead, but Croydon found themselves a goal down in the 16th minute when leading goal scorer, Michael McDonald slid the ball past Croydon keeper, Matthew Jeal (Shirley).

Eight minutes from the half-time interval, Croydon striker Sean Scannell (Ashburton), shot narrowly wide from 23 yards.

In the 28th minute Jeal made a superb close range save to keep Croydon in the game.

Mid Sussex increased their lead five minutes after half-time with a carbon-copy goal by McDonald, as he outstripped the Croydon defence.

But Croydon had by far the lion's share of possession, although they were unable to create any clear-cut chances.

When Mid Sussex conceded a penalty for a handball offence eight minutes from time, Croydon skipper Jack Hingert (Woodcote) stepped up to take the spot-kick.