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An interesting little three day tournament this. Two groups of four teams met in games consisting of 25 minute halves.
A nice little post-season test allowing the boys to pit their wits against some serious opposition.
Saints were drawn in against Hannover 96, Borussia Dortmund and Fluminese. Whilst Feyenoord, Athletico Mineiro, Hamburger SV and local side TuS Ennepetal played each other in the second group.
First up, Borussia Dortmund: It was 1-0 to the Germans going into the final minute when Richard Bakary put in a wonderful cross for Marcus Barnes to head home.
FINAL SCORE: Southampton 1-1 Dortmund
Next, Fluminese FC: Despite a promising start, saints spent much of the first half chasing Brazilian shadows, eventually conceding a penalty. The spot kick was missed but our boys didn't make the most of the oppurtunity, quickly going down two nil in the second half. There was a final flurry of activity from the saints at the death and a few good chances were created. Here is one Barnes was unable to make the most.
FINAL SCORE: Southampton 0-2 Fluminese
The final group game was against Hannover: Missed this one, but here is the winning goal courtesy of the wonderful Josh Sims
FINAL SCORE: Southampton 1-0 Hannover
All this meant saints finished third in their group and would face Hamburger SV in the 5th/6th Final. And what a 5th place final it was for our boys. Here are the goals:
Marcus Barnes
Olufela Olomola
Olufela Olomola
Harley Willard, unfortunately the host video missed chunks of this goal
And a shout out to Jake Hallet with some exceptional saves
FINAL SCORE: Southampton 4-1 Hamburger SV
So the saints finish fifth and go home with their heads held high.
The season may be over but keep your eyes on the St Mary's Musings this summer as we start our prospect rankings series. A mainstay in many of the American sports blogs on this site. We'll let you know who to keep an eye on and track their progress.