Gorleston U16 beat Kirkley and Pakefield U16 1-0 in the Norfolk and Suffolk Youth League Cup final. The first Gorleston FC team on the pitch since the passing of Jimmy Jones showed their respect by wearing RIP T-shirts, with both teams and the large crowd observing a minute silence prior to kick-off. A repeat of last year’s final saw two evenly-matched teams compete for the last chance of silverware in the youth cup ranks. After 10 minutes a reckless challenge on Jack saw him limp off to be replaced by Daly, surprisingly not resulting in a caution for K&P player.

The first real attempt on goal came after 16 minutes when Sean saw his shot saved by the feet of the K&P keeper. Sam in goal was kept busy by K&P’s long ball game and set pieces showing great hands coming through a crowded box and catching everything. A closely contested half finished 0-0. The second half and after a stirring team talk from Glyn, the lads started brightly and were more positive creating early chances. Sam was called into action again from another free kick on 58 minutes. Although few chances the work rate and commitment was spot on. This time our free kick caused problems with Mitch shooting just wide on 65 minutes and Lee with a half chance saved on 70 minutes. After 75 minutes Sean drove towards goal weaving between two defenders with his quick feet drawing a definite penalty kick, Adam stood up to the task with a well-placed penalty sending their goalkeeper the wrong way and scoring low to his right. Joyous celebrations resulted. A nervy injury time but the boys showed great maturity keeping the ball under pressure to see the game out. A well deserved cup victory, well done to the team who have played through all the rounds to give us this success. Sam’s handling of the long ball and free kicks earned him “man of the match” award.

A victory wanted so badly by the management team in memory of Jimmy Jones, thinking of Jane and all the family. A thank you to the committee of Gorleston FC, Anne and Stu, but special thanks to Richard Daniels for time spent on boys before, during and after the game with a rousing heartfelt team talk. This will be the last cup medal for the team after an extremely successful nine years in the Norfolk and Suffolk Youth League. We thank them for their effort and commitment along with the parents and our terrific sponsor Alan Gordon of Global ES.