Our Under 11s, competing in the Midland Junior Premier League, once again proved their resilience as they booked their place in the Trophy Final last weekend, this time against a strong Newcastle Town side.

Although the tie was supposed to be a home fixture, recent weather conditions forced Eccleshall to give up home advantage and reverse the match so that it could go ahead. As a result, the young Eagles travelled to Roe Lane for a 4.30pm kick off on Newcastle's 3G pitch. With the sides having played out a thrilling 4-4 draw earlier in the season, a tasty match was in prospect and the game duly delivered.

The first half was a tight contest as Newcastle enjoyed more possession but Eccleshall carved out the clearer chances only to be denied by an inspired Newcastle goalkeeper.

Half time: Newcastle Town 0 Eccleshall 0

Shortly after the restart, a long ball caused problems for the Eccleshall defence, allowing Newcastle's striker to pounce and tap home for the opener. Eagles rallied and thought they had equalised when Braxton Maguire raced through and finished brilliantly, only to be denied by the raised flag of the assistant referee for offside.

As time ticked away, Newcastle moved to slow the game down playing into the corners to run down the clock. However, the word 'quit' is unknown to the young Eccleshall team. With just minutes left, a trademark long throw from Freddie Chell found its way to Bobby Moorhouse and he laid the ball off perfectly for centre back Seb Steele to drill it into the bottom corner. A massive moment in the game which meant that penalties now beckoned.

Full time: Newcastle Town 1 Eccleshall 1

What followed was now a masterclass in composure as both sides scored their spot kicks and the shootout reached 8-8. Newcastle's goalkeeper stepped up but his effort was superbly saved by Natan Szczesny. Natan then strode forward himself and coolly slotted home the winning spot kick to send the Eccleshall following wild.

The result meant that the young Eagles will now meet Holyfields FC in the Trophy final. The date and venue are yet to be confirmed

Eccleshall Squad:
Natan Szczesny, Bobby Moorhouse, Arthur Knapper, Eli Richens, Seb Steele, Freddie Chell, Braxton Maguire, Jacob Egan, Finn Lacey, Miller McQueen, Jidesochi Ikpe, Franek Rybacki, Clayton Morris.

This was a great achievement for the young side who were watched by club committee members and first team player Jordan Flattley along with the team's regular supporters.

Congratulations and well done from all at Eccleshall FC.