GCE Hire Fleet United Counties Football League
The Sports Ground Development Reserves Division Cup
Semi-Final
Saturday 14th February 2026
Desborough Town Reserves (0) – (4) Harborough Town Under 21’s
Report – Josh Unsworth
Photo – MGK Captures
The Young Bees turned their focus to cup action in the UCL Reserves Knock-Out Semi Final, arriving full of confidence after an outstanding run of league form that has seen them win 11 matches in succession. Carrying momentum into the semi-final, Harborough looked determined to extend that streak and book their place in the final with another composed and clinical performance.
It was the Young Bees who started on the front foot, asserting themselves early and testing the Desborough goal throughout the opening stages. Their intent was clear, pressing high and forcing mistakes while moving the ball with purpose in the final third.
The breakthrough came following a spell of pressure. Archie O’Donnell was fouled on the edge of the area, but the referee allowed play to continue, with advantage working perfectly in Harborough’s favour as Bakari Furbert was tripped inside the penalty area moments later. Captain Archie O’Donnell stepped up confidently and converted from the spot to make it 1–0.
Harborough continued to suffocate Desborough with their pressing game. Soon afterwards, brilliant high-intensity work forced another turnover. Lovell Edwards showed tremendous strength to shrug off three Desborough players before playing O’Donnell through on goal. The skipper remained composed, slotting home to double the advantage and give the Young Bees full control of proceedings.
Just before the break, relentless pressure paid dividends once more. Shaan Virk’s aggressive press unsettled the Desborough defence, allowing him to nick possession, round the goalkeeper and square for Leighton McWilliams to tap in from close range. The Young Bees went into half-time with a commanding 3–0 lead.
The second half was managed intelligently. Harborough maintained control of possession and tempo, ensuring Desborough were not given a route back into the contest. Zak Gillespie’s high press forced yet another defensive error, resulting in a second penalty for the visitors. O’Donnell stepped up once more to complete his hat-trick from the spot, sealing a deserved 4–0 victory and progression to the final.
After the match, Head Coach Josh Unsworth said:
“Desborough were an awkward but honest team and they never gave up.
Our counter press is what we work on so hard during training and today was probably the best performance — all four goals were caused by us not allowing Desborough to get set. I’m super proud of the boys.”
Another professional display, and a place in the final secured. 🐝