Newton Aycliffe Youth FC under 13 Girls travelled to Blackpool to compete in the prestigious and very competitive annual Youth Soccer Tournament. Furthermore a late call from the organisers meant we had to compete with older girls in the under 14 competition. The tournament was over 2 days and these older teams from across the country provided stiff opposition for our younger girls.
The tough group stages were completed with 2 wins, a draw and 2 defeats giving us a 4th place finish from the eight team group. The semi final against Morpeth Town, group winners and the team who beat us in the group stages 4-1, ended in a 1-1 draw and Aycliffe came out on top 3-1 winners in the penalty shoot out. On to the cup final against a very physical Preston North End side , but the girls dug in and matched their older opponents. Chances were created by both sides but the game ended 0-0 and onto another penalty shoot out.
After 8 penalties each, the sides still couldn’t be separated but then Emily slotted hers in of the post and PNE hit the post and stayed out, we were champions and the celebrations began. Well done to every player and all the supporters who made for a memorable weekend.
