Hotspur heroes star in Holland
THE Wales football team delighted the nation by reaching the Euro 2016 semi-finals last year, but a young group of players from Anglesey also did their country proud on the Continent by winning a top international tournament.
Holyhead Hotspur Under-10s emerged unbeaten through seven matches and defeated teams from five different countries to finish overall winners of the SV Nevelo competition in Holland.
The day began with a ceremony to introduce each team to the crowd and one another. Hotspur walked out onto the pitch to the song Dakota by Stereophonics, waving their Welsh flags.
Each team then had their national anthem played, a proud honour the boys and coaches fully embraced.
Having enjoyed such a great season domestically, Holyhead were well set.
A tough opening game against TSG Neu-Isenburg E2 of Germany ended 0-0, only some great saves by Corey Laverty keeping Hotspur in the game.
The next match against Scotland’s AFC Vernon Colts also finished goalless. Hotspur dominated possession but just could not finish their chances.
Coaches Nick Dumbarton and Nathan Owen explained: “A team talk took place after this game. We were struggling to cope with the large playing areas and the pressure we had put upon ourselves. A change in tactics and a release of pressure and a focus on enjoyment was explained to the players ready for the next match.”
The pep-talk worked, as in match three Hotspur defeated Tallaght Town of Ireland 1-0. The boys looked a lot sharper and took full points with their first win, Kian Zoller turning the opposition inside out before threading a pass to Noel Owen to score.
Confidence was growing in the Welsh camp and an impressive 5-0 beating of Belgium’s Beerschot-Wilrijk followed, Noel Owen 2, Osian Dumbarton with a cracker, Lennon Owen and Luca Meek on target.
The islanders were playing some exceptional football, two goals apiece from Noel Owen and Lennon Owen sealing a 4-0 triumph against Engelen J010-7 of Sweden.
This brought the group stages to an end, Holyhead securing a semi-final spot after finishing runners-up to TSG Neu-Isenburg E2.
In the last four, other group winners VC Groot Dilbeek of Belgium awaited.
This was the hardest test yet, but smart finishes from Noel Owen and Lennon Owen sent Hotspur into the final.
TSG Neu-Isenburg E2 were the opposition in the final and having topped the earlier group, the Germans were favourites.
Hotspur rushed into a 1-0 lead, but TSG equalised quickly with the first goal the Anglesey lads had conceded.
Nonetheless, Holyhead would not be denied and ended up 4-1 winners, Luca Meek, Noel Owen and Lennon Owen (2) with the goals.
Cue phenomenal celebrations from players, coaches and family alike at the final whistle.
Coaches Dumbarton and Owen said: “The boys exceeded our expectations and did themselves, family, coaches and the support back home in Holyhead proud.
“We thank all sponsors and donations that made this trip of a lifetime possible for 16 players and parents.
“The support from the town of Holyhead and surrounding area has been nothing short of amazing.
“After a slow start, the players ensured the trip to Holland and the tournament win would be remembered by us all forever.”