Team Sunderland Men’s Football host inaugural Zak Chowdhury Memorial Trophy

Team Sunderland Men’s Football raised over £1100 for charity at Wednesday night’s Memorial Trophy in memory of student Zak Chowdhury who passed away earlier this year.

The Zak Chowdhury Memorial Trophy saw a Men’s Football XI take on a University of Sunderland Staff XI in a well contested match at Ford Hub.

Men’s Football ran out 3-2 winners with a late winner from Alex Clennell clinching the victory.

James Alpine had given Men’s Football a first half lead before University of Sunderland Staff turned it round with a penalty from Kobe Bewicke and a well taken Matty Harris goal.

Men’s Football levelled with an unfortunate own goal before University of Sunderland Staff had a chance to take the lead.

Departing Team Sunderland Student Engagement Officer Ollie Barnett stepped up but saw his effort ricochet off the bar to leave the scores level.

Just as the game looked to be heading to a draw Clennell broke clear and slotted in the winner.

After the whistle Men’s Football were presented with the inaugural Zak Chowdhury Memorial Trophy while members of Zak’s family were presented with The Ainsley Charles Award for Most Improved Individual that had been awarded to Zak at this year’s Sports Ball.

There was also a fundraiser held in the café at Ford Hub with a Football Card and “Guess the Number of Sweets” to raise money for If U Care Share.

Team Sunderland Student Engagement Officer Ollie Barnett said: “The event was incredible. The amount of staff, students, family and friends who dedicated their time to supporting this event was beyond belief and this was all shown by the astonishing £1162 raised for If U Care Share from this event alone.

“The event really summed up how much Zak was loved by all and it was heart warming to see so many people came together as a celebration of his life.”

Team Sunderland Men’s Football president Danny Jackson-Brown said “The first ever Zak Chowdhury Memorial Trophy was an unbelievable event, one that surpassed our expectations.

“A phenomenal way to recognize and celebrate an individual that is so close to all our lads’ hearts. Based on the success of the event we are hopeful to hold another in the future.”