STOKESLEY FC PROGRESS TO UK FINAL
Local Team Stokesley FC U13 boy's football team has won the Tesco Cup English Final on Sunday at the Walkers Stadium, Leicester beating VCD Athletic 1-0. The boys now advance to the UK Final of the Tesco Cup at the Reebok Stadium, home of Bolton Wanderers, on Sunday 24 May.
Stokesley FC played the heavily tipped VCD Athletic from Kent in the Final which proved to be a tightly fought game. Goalkeeper of the tournament Gareth Shaw, showed his class for Stokesley with a string of fine saves keeping his team in the match. The team defended very well and had a number of good counter attacks using their quick frontline which caused a constant threat to the VCD Athletic defence. However, it was a moment of individual brilliance which would end up being the difference between the two sides with Player of the Tournament Will Muir controlling a clearing header with his first touch before unleashing a shot from all of thirty yards into the top left corner. VCD Athletic were unable to create any more chances, allowing Stokesley to play out the rest of the match to be crowned the Tesco Cup English National Winners.
Team Manager said, Kevan Howe said, ‘I am delighted that the team will play in the final after all the hard work they have put in this season. It is a great reward for the boys as we are just a small team from Yorkshire who are now champions of England. Going to the Reebok Stadium will be a very special occasion.'
Former England International Des Walker, who attended the English final along with England women's player Sophie Bradley, commented: ‘It is an incredible opportunity to play at the Walkers Stadium and the youngsters seemed to really enjoy the experience. I have seen a fantastic standard of play and I look forward to seeing how the finalists get on at the UK final.'
The following players won individual awards:
Best Goalkeeper; Gareth Shaw (Stokesley)
Best Defender; Ashley Long (VCD Athletic)
Best Midfielder; Ciceron Pangi (AFC Kempston Colts)
Best Forward; Sam Aldred (VCD Athletic)
Player of the Tournament; William Muir (Stokesley)
Key Dates
