The Ark Destroyer

Tile Cross Academy U12s’ cup run ended in heartache as they succumbed to a 3-1 defeat against Ark St. Albans in the semi-finals of the Worthington Cup, Wednesday 24th January

In a feverish atmosphere away from home at St. Alban’s Park, TCA were unable to find their rhythm against a strong side that featured two Villa academy players and one Blues academy player. Ark St. Albans raced into a 2-0 lead with two well-taken goals. However, it felt like the tide was set to turn, as TCA fought back and had a period of dominance which deserved a goal for their endeavours. Unfortunately, the team went into half-time 2-0 down, their frustration compounded as their goalkeeper (Flynn) had to limp off after suffering a knock.

The TCA side kept rallying after the break to their credit, only for the home side to extend their lead with a spectacular strike. TCA managed to pull a consolation goal back by forcing a St. Albans error, but they were well beaten by a team who were far more technically superior, and surely favourites to go on and lift the trophy.

Goal scorers: Ark St. Albans own goal (1)  

Players making their full debut: Gibbs, Bope, Doherty, Muhammad, Swai

It was the team’s first taste of school knockout cup football, and the boys should really be proud of themselves after losing graciously. Every single one of them represented Tile Cross in a fantastic manner.