U16 FAPL Trophy: Lancs 3-1 Leics
Monday 27 March 2006By ESFA Office
Last Updated:
10/02/2021 11:48:41
Lancashire Boys secure a place in the final
Lancashire boys dug deep to retrieve a 1-0 deficit going into the last 15 minutes to secure their place in the ESFA Premier League U16 Inter County Trophy Final. In a tremendous game of schoolboy football at Burscough FC on Tuesday night (21 March), Leicestershire took a 1-0 lead after the break. A deep cross was not dealt with, which allowed Andy Hickey to steal in at the far post.
In the first half both teams created good opportunities but both goalkeepers were on top form. Chris Thompson (Rossendale) made a brave stop at the Leicestershire attacker's feet in the first 5 minutes. He then showed his skills under the high ball on a number of occasions. Dominic Merella (South Ribble) became a thorn in the Leicester defence as he raided down the right wing on a number. From one of these sorties he gained a free kick. Lewis Craig (Pendle) then came across to whip in as superb left-footed cross, Rob Turner (Blackburn) timed his run to perfection and deftly headed past Leicestershire goalkeeper, Daniel Whatsize. He then doubled his tally with a great turn and shot just a few minutes later. Alex Smith rounded off the match with a well guided header after another cross from Craig, this time from the left.
Andy Buckingham Lancashire's coach was both relieved and happy. "It was tense affair for all, but, this team has shown such character all season". Lancashire have achieved seven wins out of seven competitive fixtures this season. "This is a record that Lancashire Schools has not repeated since they last won the National title in 1998. I am very proud to be associated with such a talented group. We have been drawn against either Devon in the final, so I hope we can secure a Premier league ground - the boys certainly deserve it".
