Monkwearmouth FA Year 9s inspire thrilling comeback in ESFA National Cup vs Ponteland High School
Monkwearmouth’s Year 9 A squad booked themselves into the third round of the U14 ESFA National Cup after winning 2-3 away at Ponteland High School – despite falling behind with only minutes left on the clock.
Some fantastic strikes from long-range were on show by both teams on Thursday night, which can be viewed in the highlights package above.
Director of football, Jamie Chandler, told SportsByte the squad dealt with the challenge strongly.
He said: “Last night was a a proper national cup fixture which was played in a real competitive manner with both sides showing great qualities.
“We got off to a great start through a set piece again, with Alex Mapstone getting the final finish.
“Fair play to Ponteland who reacted very well and came back into the game with a fantastic strike and followed that up with another long range effort.
“We addressed a few things together as a group at half time and the subs that came on made a great impact which was very pleasing to see.
“We got the equaliser at a crucial time and that gave us the lift to go on and get the winner in the final minute with a bit of magic from Charlie Whitfield.
“The togetherness, desire and never give up attitude was very pleasing to see as it was the first time they had been behind and had to deal with adversity this season.
“We have another exciting game in the county cup next week and I am sure the boys will go into the game full of confidence and ready for another tough test.”
Year 9 will host Grace College from Gateshead in the CIC Cup before October 22 to keep their hopes of winning a trophy not won since 2017 by the school alive.
