On Saturday 18^th September 2021, Isles Construction Massey University FC were crowned Lotto Federation Cup Champions for the third time in the last four campaigns. Their latest final win in this excellent record featured an away match, a second half come-back from two goals down and a 93^rd minute winner, which will only add to the many tales of Massey Cup Football. 

Massey’s road to the final included wins against Whanganui Athletic Reserves, Maycenvale Utd, Peringa United, Napier City Rovers and the final 3-4 win vs TMT Building Ltd Moturoa AFC.

Massey Coach – Donald Piper was rightly ecstatic following the match: -

“To win a final is always special, to do it again away from home is always a massive achievement. Moturoa were a class act on and off the pitch and the experience was fitting of a final. We hadn’t played them in 18 years and to take the victory will be memorable for all.”

It was far from going to plan for Massey as they found themselves 2-0 down at halftime.

“In my opinion we had played poorly in the first half and went to direct, not our style at all. I knew we had the quality but this year in big games we had somewhat shied away from playing. I was pleased to see the players trust in each other and play our style more in the second spell. The weight of possession told, and we scored four really good goals.”

Mr Piper also wasn’t giving too much away when queried about whether off the back of three Federation Cup titles, that it may be time for a Chatham Cup entry in 2022?

 “The club does aspire to playing in the Central League and one way to get some needed experience would be the Chatham Cup. Next season’s playing group will have a big say as to what we decide.”

That debate is for Massey to work through in 2022. For now the club will rightly celebrate another successful cup campaign for their Federation squad.

Congratulations from Central Football to Isles Construction Massey University FC – Lotto Federation Cup Champions 2021 and thank you to all clubs who took part in our elite Cup competition this season.

Article added: Tuesday 21 September 2021