Written : 26/05/2025

Categories: Club News SIL Development Side

Vice-Captain Oli Fleming had a chat with us to look at how the season has gone for the development side, and what he is looking forward to at Portman Road in a few days time.

1 – How has the season gone from your perspective?

I think the seasons been a very successful one, adapting well to a harder league. First half of the season a bit of adjustment time to the new league was needed and harder opponents affected our results, perhaps a lack of experience at times caused 3 points to turn into 1 occasionally, but the second half of the season we’ve all pulled in the same direction which is why we’ve ended on such a good run of form. Definitely a positive first season in div 1 as it is never easy when promoted and I think we’ve given a good account of ourselves.

2 – What does it mean to get to a cup final?

To get to the cup final is surreal, and to play at Portman Road makes it that little bit more special. The aim has always been to get to this point since the first game and to overcome some of the teams we have shows that we are a serious team and the league position paints an unfair picture of us. Having played every round of this cup with no byes makes it even more rewarding.

Also having played in this team through Div 3, Div 2 and now Div 1 along with a broken ankle on the way makes it that little bit more special as it shows the journey and progression we have all been through as a team  and the setbacks I have had individually.

3 – What has been the highlight of the cup run for you?

Highlight of the cup run probably has to be the first shootout we had against Saxmundham, from that point on we knew we had knocked out one of the favourites for the cup who were flying in the league at the time. All the boys pulling through with their pens and of course Chaz pulling off some top saves, ultimately winning it for us.

4 – What are you looking forward to most playing at Portman Road?

I am most looking forward to playing on that pitch and taking it all in. Playing at Portman Road isn’t something you get to experience very often, if ever, so it’s gonna be important to take it all in. It will be a surreal feeling to play on a pitch of that quality. I am buzzing for Vinnie to get this opportunity also, he is a top man who has done so much to keep this team going so this is fully deserved and we hope he can end on a high, that will be nice to see.

5 – What is the largest mammal you think you could win a fight against and why?

Not a clue 🤣 I wouldn’t want to wind the wrong thing up… got another question ??

* editors note – I think Oli was being polite as I don’t think there are many mammals on this planet who would relish going into a 50/50 challenge with Oli when there is a trophy on the line.

 

The final will be played at Portman Road on Thursday 29th May, kick off at 7.30pm.

Tickets are only available on the gate and are priced:

Adults – £8

Concessions – £5

Children 12-16 years – £1

Children Under 12 – Free when accompanied by an adult