Helston Athletic reached the last four of the Les Phillips Cup for the third consecutive season after a narrow victory over Buckland Athletic.

The encounter, which took place last week, preceded the weekend's postponed home league fixture against Saltash United, due to wet weather and a waterlogged pitch at Kellaway Park.

But the quarter final cup match which played out started with possibly the quickest goal of the season to date. 

Helston's Rikki Shepherd assisted Jacob Smith to break the deadlock within just two minutes of the start.

Then Kai Cornish made matters worse for Buckland Athletic, netting Helston's second on the ten minute mark.

But the away side's fightback got well underway, getting a goal back from the penalty spot about half an hour in to the first half, after Teigan Rosenquest was brought down in the box. Helston keeper Kyle Moore got a hand to it, but the force of the shot from Jared Lewington steered the ball to the back of the net. 

The remainder of the half was closely contested, but Helston managed to end the half leading the game 2-1.

Falmouth Packet: Helston man of the match David Barker

Now it was Buckland Athletics' turn to start a half of football quickly, levelling the score just three minutes after the second 45 started.

The visitors put the pressure on from the moment the whistle blew, and when Sammy Stayt was taken down on the edge of the area it left Buckland with a free kick in a dangerous position for Helston. Buckland made the most of their opportunity from the edge of the box, slotting the ball in the corner of the net. 

Thankfully for the home support, which was 68 spectators strong, Helston Athletic reclaimed the lead with Rikki Shepherd's low shot across goals on 58 minutes.

After an intense final few minutes of play, including two of added time, the home side held on to their lead.

The final score was Helston Athletic 3-2 Buckland Athletic, as The Blues celebrated reaching yet another semi-final.

A Buckland Athletic spokesperson commended Helston after the match, saying: "Congratulations to our hosts on their victory in horrid conditions."

Following an outstanding performance, David Barker was named Helston man of the match.

Looking ahead, an away trip will now take Helston Athletic to Barnstaple Town AFC to fight for a spot in the Les Phillips Cup final.