Linfield FC U13 boys reach Tesco Cup UK Final
Following victory at the Northern Ireland Tesco Cup final this weekend, Linfield FC U13 boys now advance to the UK final of the Tesco Cup to be held at the Reebok Stadium, Bolton on 16 May.
Linfield, who have an excellent track record in the competition, beat Bertie Peacock Youth of Coleraine 3-1 at Stangmore Park in Dungannon. It was Bertie Peacock Youth who took an early lead with the opening goal at 19 minutes. However, Linfield replied with an equaliser just before half time when Captain Jordan Malone tapped home.
Linfield dominated the second half, with lively man of the match Jordan Thompson giving them the lead when he volleyed into the net. Just minutes later Thompson scored again, following a great run down the left.
Former Northern Ireland Footballer Jim Magilton attended the tournament, and selected the following players to win individual awards:
Player of the Tournament: Jordan Thompson (Linfield)
Forward of the Tournament: Jordan Thompson (Linfield)
Midfielder of the Tournament: Brad Lyons (Linfield)
Defender of the Tournament: Scot Whiteside (Bertie Peacock Youth)
Goalkeeper of the Tournament: Jason Craughwall (Linfield)
Tesco Cup Ambassador Jim Magilton commented, ‘The Tesco Cup is a fantastic opportunity for young players to take part in a structured competition, with the ultimate goal of representing their country at a Premiership ground. The youngsters had a great time at the Northern Ireland final and I wish Linfield FC the best of luck for the UK final, here's hoping they bring the UK trophy back to Northern Ireland this year!'
The Tesco Cup is part of a wider commitment from Tesco to encourage children to get involved in sport. Now in its fifth year, Tesco works in conjunction with the FA and local communities to help improve the football skills of young players.
Tesco Cup teams compete at County and then Regional level (area level in Wales) in a bid to become National Champions and ultimately, to represent their country at the UK Final. The National Winners, in each age category, from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will play in the UK Final to be held at the Reebok Stadium, Bolton - the home of Bolton Wanderers - on Sunday May 16, 2010, where they will fight it out to become UK Champions.
In 2008/09 England dominated the UK final with Stokesley FC U13 boys, Manchester City U14 girls and Manchester U16 girls winning the tournament.
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