National Cup win is just class for squad
SCHOOLS FOOTBALL
NEWCASTLE Schools Under-13s made history when they defeated North Kent 2-1 at Birmingham City’s St Andrews ground to claim the ESFA National Cup.
In doing so, they became the first city schools side to win the prestigious competition in 85 years.
On their way to the final the Tynesiders had defeated Bishop Auckland 11-2, Chester-le-Street 5-4, Sunderland 5-1, Sheffield 2-0 and Nottingham 2-1
They faced an undefeated North Kent team who had made it into four finals this season - winning all 19 of their games.
However, Newcastle broke their unbeaten record - just as they did with Sunderland, Sheffield and Nottingham.
Within just a minute of the start North Kent had a great opportunity to take the lead - but failed to capitalise.
They had the better of the chances in an even first half, Newcastle having plenty of possession but not creating any clear-cut opportunities.
However, Newcastle took the game by the scruff of the neck after the break, dominating possession and beginning to threaten the North Kent goal.
The breakthrough came 10 minutes into the second half when Alfie Watmore put the Toon ahead with a 25-yard free-kick after being fouled.
Newcastle, though, were not content with one goal and immediately went searching for a second.
They went closest to scoring next when Nathan Nkunku forced the North Kent goalkeeper into a great low save from distance.
The second goal came in the 57h minute when captain Michael Ndiweni latched on to a poor North Kent header, taking the ball in his stride and finishing with aplomb.
It was his 12th goal of the competition and he has scored in every round of it.
North Kent knew time was running out and went all out to pull a goal back but found it difficult to break down a determined Newcastle defence or get past the excellent Mauro Asikaogu in goal.
However, they did reduce the deficit in the first minute of injury time.
This made for a nervous final minute - but Newcastle held on to win the National Cup for the first time since 1930.
Kevin Hodgson of the Newcastle chools FA said: “It is a truly amazing achievement by Kevin Drinkeld and his team.
“To win a national competition for your city is a dream come true for all involved.
“The lads’ attitude and commitment to the association, the manager and each other has been exceptional.”
“North Kent were tough opposition.
“Like Sunderland, Sheffield and Nottingham they were all undefeated until they played us.
“It was an even first half but we dominated the second period and were deserved winners for the first time in 85 years!”