26th March 2023
Alderney 1 – 6 Jersey
Jamie Blackham etched his name into Alderney’s sporting history with a goal that provided a fleeting glimmer of hope in their Muratti Vase semi-final clash against Jersey. Scoring in the Muratti is a rare achievement for Alderney players since the tournament’s inception in 1905, and Blackham’s well-taken effort shortly after the interval reduced the visitors’ lead to 3-1. The Arsenal Ground erupted in joy as the first Alderney goal in the Muratti for six years brought momentary excitement.
However, the jubilation was short-lived. Jersey’s Francis Lekimimati delivered a hammer-blow to Alderney’s revival hopes with a powerful free-kick that restored the visitors’ commanding lead at 4-1. From there, Jersey’s composure and confidence took over as they controlled the game, eventually cruising to a decisive victory.
First Half
The match began with a minute’s silence in memory of Nomads’ Chairman Reg Atkins, whose legacy was honored in the commemorative match programme. Jersey, playing with the blustery wind at their backs, took early control of the game and asserted their dominance.
Alderney struggled to contain Jersey’s towering and agile striker, Harrison Moon, who struck twice in the first half. Jersey’s third goal came from a right-wing cross that avoided all attackers but deflected off an Alderney defender into the net. By halftime, Alderney faced an uphill battle as they trailed 3-0.
Second Half
The interval provided Alderney a chance to regroup, and they started the second half with renewed determination. Their effort was rewarded when Jamie Blackham seized a chance to score, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. The goal was a proud moment for Alderney football, breaking a six-year drought in the Muratti Vase.
Yet any thoughts of a comeback were swiftly dashed when Lekimimati’s stunning free-kick made it 4-1. Jersey added further polish to their performance with goals from Karl Hinds, who headed in the fifth, and Jack Cannon, who sealed the result from the penalty spot after Alderney goalkeeper Dean Carre’s brave attempt to block.
Full-Time: Alderney 1 – 6 Jersey
While the result was one most expected, Alderney’s players gave their all against a superior Jersey side. Despite the loss, Alderney held their heads high, and the home crowd appreciated their effort. Jersey’s victory marked their 76th in the competition’s history as they advanced to face Guernsey in another Muratti final in May.
Team Line-Up
Alderney: Dean Carre, Josh McCulloch, John Adamson, Josh Concanen, Andy Adamson, Jason Atkins, Richard Moore, Jermaine Perry, Jamie Blackham, Joe Blackham, Liam Connor.
Subs: Owen Carre, Dillian Dupont, Matt Aldcroft, Florin Lungo.
Man of the Match
Jermaine Perry, sponsored by The Campania Inn.
Alderney’s Nomads demonstrated resilience and commitment, ensuring the island was well represented despite the challenging match-up against a dominant Jersey side.
