After so many runners-up finishes NAYFC Under 14 Girls finally triumphed in their first 9 vs 9 Tournament held by Cleveland Juniors FC. Six teams, Cleveland Juniors Scorpions & Terriers, Bishop Auckland Girls, Boro Rangers, Skelton Girls and NAYFC played for a top four spot to progress to the knock-out stages.
The first game ended in a 2-0 win against the Terriers, second game saw Bishop edge out the Youth girls 1-0 in a close match. Game three was a 1-0 win against Skelton. Then, the other Cleveland team, Scorpions, held us to a 0-0 draw. Our final group game ended by beating Boro Rangers 2-1. Onto the knock-out semi-final against the Terriers.
A slack kick-out from their keeper, allowed Chloe Ryan to slot home the winner. Bishop Auckland won through via a penalty shoot-out in the other semi-final, setting up a local derby.
With 7 minutes each way, it’s vital to score first and the girls did with Chloe firing a left foot shot into the top corner after a couple of minutes. Bishop came back, but everyone defended well and held on for a fantastic win. Outstanding performances from all girls, Courtney Wilson, Hallie Silvester, Ella McAllister, Ellie O’Brien, Shannon Stapleton, Holly Barrigan, Martha Humble, Lily Mansfield, Matilda Weir, Becky Potter, Lydia Shale, Paige Spensley, Chloe Ryan and Molly Clark with jubilant scenes at the final whistle!
Congratulations to Manager Helen Clark and Coach Mark Silvester on getting their hands on silverware at last!