Three matches for the Preliminary Round of the 2011-2012 Diplomatic Cup were played on a cold but sunny Saturday morning in Wandsworth Common. On pitch No. 1 we saw Japan entertain The Commonwealt Secretariat and the League team did not disappoint and dispatched the newcomers 6-0. The Commonwealth Secretariat put up a good show but in the end the lack of match practice showed with Japan coming out eventual winners and for the first time through to the Diplomatic Cup quarter-finals.

On pitch No. 3 we witnessed a similar scenario with Wales, struggling in the League, getting the better of newcomers Mexico. A double by their top goal scorer, Shaun Bryan, helped Wales to a 4-0 win. With their first real win since joining the DFA-IFLeague, Wales reach the Diplomatic Cup quarter-finals at their first attempt and hopefully will inspire them to more victories in 2012.

On pitch No. 2 we had what turned out to be the match of the day with France entertaing newcomers EnglandFans FC. With both national anthems played before kick-off and a minute silence observed in memory of the late Gary Speed, the had all the ingredients to be a classic and did not disappoint. France showed why they have been struggling in the League of late and even though they had a lot of the ball they were unable to break down a solid EnglandFans defense who were very dangerous especially on dead ball situations and from two set pieces managed to score their opening two goals. With France forced to take risks it was no surprised when they were caught near the end with a lovely chip from their experienced centre forward Ian Allsop. With their 3-0 win EnglandFans are assured of at least two more matches in 2012, with their first being againts Japan for the Diplomatic Cup quarter-finals.

Once the sun came out a great day was had by all those present in Wandsworth Common and we have to congratulate the great spirit shown by all teams especially Mexico and The Commonwealt Secretariat - well suported on the day - who even in defeat showed great ambition and played within the spirit of the League. We hope new teams enjoyed their experience and we are sure that with a few more matches under their belts both teams will be able to compete with the established League clubs. The EnglandFans team proved to be well organised with a great Manager and set of players and by beating last seasons League champions that they will be one of the main contenders to lift the 2011-2012 Diplomatic Cup trophy. Well done everyone and we look forward to see you all on the pitch in 2012.

PIC. The Referee, France and EnglandFans players and Managers before kick-off.