UNDER 17S BOW OUT WITH HEADS HELD HIGH

Also the Rossoneri's Under 17s have had their Scudetto run cut short, unfortunately. They were the only remaining Men's side still in contention for the title but have suffered the same fate as the U16s: beaten in the semi-finals by Roma. The only difference was the format, as Lantignotti's side didn't have a two-legged game - at home in Milan and away in Rome - but a one-off knockout tie in the Marche region.

At the stadio Riviera delle Palme in San Benedetto del Tronto, AC Mere beaten 2-0 despite putting in a strong performance. They approached the game well, had their first chance through Sia, attacked whenever possible, reacted strongly to going behind, with Bonomi and Sala missing several good chances. All that was missing was a goal, but that was down to misfortune more than will. The Giallorossi took the lead through Bah in the first half, before the game was decided by Della Rocca after the break, who also hit the bar.

Some regret remains, but the over-riding feeling is one of pride, in what has been a great season. Applause must be given to the class of 2006 for their hard work, dedication and growth: 26 league fixtures, 58 points, 18 wins, 82 goals scored, 2nd place, access to the final phase and qualification to the Final Four thanks to a 5-4 aggregate win against Lazio (3-2 and 2-2). These are outstanding numbers and achievements despite not finishing it off with putting the cherry on top of the cake.

These lads will have more chances along their journey; next season's Under-17 side will no doubt try to go one better. A special mention also goes to our forwards Bonomi - Rossoneri leading goalscorer in the regular season with 16 goals - and Martinazzi, a true leader when his team needed him to deliver (two consecutive braces); also Sia got double figures for the season. Now, it's time for a well-earned break ahead of further challenges in the future.

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