Prest into action - and Leech is a hero
PRESTON Leech was the hero of the hour as Gateshead ESFA Under13s enjoyed champion success in a prestigious competition, writes TONY HODGSON.
The young goalkeeper saved two penalties and converted his side’s decisive spot kick in a dramatic 22-penalty shoot-out at Lilleshall.
His heroics ensured the young Tynesiders saw off Surrey-based Croydon after the final had ended 2-2 after normal time to claim the ESFA Playstation Under-13 National Cup.
The victory is a massive achievement for the Gateshead squad, which includes Academy players from Newcastle United and Sunderland in its ranks.
The coronavirus pandemic meant the team had to wait seven months to contest the final.
When it was finally played, two of Gateshead’s most promising players - Ollie Harrison and Luke Hood - were unable to take part and parents could not travel to cheer the players on due to Covid restrictions.
Nevertheless, the youngsters triumphed - much to the delight of proud manager Adam Jones.
He said: “This is an amazing achievement for the lads.
“Gateshead is a small borough with limited schools to select players from, in comparison to some of the opponents we have had to overcome.
“The resilience and dedication these young lads have shown far exceeds their age.
“Having played Rotherham in the semi-final on March 14 we had to wait patiently, not knowing if we would be given the opportunity to compete for the trophy we had worked so hard towards winning.
“I am delighted for the lads and so proud of what they have done.
“To win a big competition like this is just fantastic.”
Gateshead set out on the cup glory trail in October last year, defeating neighbours North Tyneside 7-2.
That was followed by victories over Sunderland (5-1), The Wirral (4-2 after being 2-0 down), Liverpool-based Sefton (5-4 after being behind four times) and Rotherham (4-1).
In the final, Jeevan Somal fired Gateshead into a third-minute lead but Croydon quickly drew level. Croydon started the second half the quicker, racing into a 2-1 advantage.
However, Cameron Nonas slid Sean Neave through on goal for the Tynesiders’ equaliser.
Chances went astray for Gateshead’s Neave, Somal and Anthony Munda as the game went straight to penalties.
Jones added: “It was really nerveracking stuff, my heart was in my mouth.
“After five penalties each, the scores were tied at 3-3, taking it to sudden death.
“Croydon had three opportunities to win it from the shoot-out but failed to convert on each occasion.
“The final of those was on penalty number 20 when the Croydon goalkeeper had to score to send the trophy to London.
“However, Preston would not be beaten.
“After saving the penalty, it was then his turn to step up to put us in control and he chipped the ball into the left hand side of the goal.
“Penalty number 22 was for Croydon to remain in the game but Preston again made the save to bring the trophy back to the North East.”
The victorious squad consisted of Preston Leech, Lukas Culley, Anthony Munda, Luke Craggs, Dan Parker, Jack Whittaker, Ryan Dougherty, Sean Neave, Noah Cunningham, Cameron Nonas, Jeevan Somal, Ethan Walker, Elliott Wilson, Owen Clarke, Ollie Harrison, Luke Hood and Teddy Monzialo.