YOUNGSTERS SHINE BRIGHTLY ON BIG STAGE

DUE to other commitments, I rarely get the chance to cover youth games in the district.

But the opportunity arose on Friday evening in the form of the U17 West Division Cup final between rivals Prudhoe YC Reds and Hexham Whites.
 

And what a treat it was as both sets of players were a credit to their teams with excellent displays.
 

I am fully aware of how thriving and passionate the local youth scene is, but it was a great experience to witness this first hand.
 

Counter attacking football, meaty, but fair, challenges and plenty of skill was on display, and the tie was a great advert for youth football in Tynedale.
 

There were the predicted grumbles that the final is always contested by the two teams so it was becoming meaningless, but the way both teams fought for every ball indicated that it meant a lot to get one over on their rivals.
 

Because they play in different divisions, they don’t often get a chance to go head-to-head for local bragging rights, so this cup competition garners huge interest.
 

Out of all the games in the district I have covered in the year and a bit I have been sports reporter, there has never been anywhere near the amount of spectators that were presentat Kimberly Park.
 

All 22 lads, plus the substitutes too, played with real gusto and, although, Prudhoe dominated the game, Hexham showed real glimpses of class too.
 

Hopefully, their enthusiasm will remain when they have to make the step up to senior football because, sadly, too many talented youths find it too rough and tough compared to what they are used to.