Knocklyon U13 Sunday - Blackpool Cup 2023

Our 1st game against Clyde from Scotland started with plenty of singing on the bus to the game where the Clyde boys put it up to the Knocklyon boys.

Knocklyon did their talking on the pitch with a convincing 3-0 win, We were on top from the off but needed some sharp goalkeeping from Stephen Bennis early on.

With goals from Dylan, a cracker from Aidan and an OG securing the win.

Next up was Linwood also from Scotland. They were a tougher prospect with the boys battling out a 0-0 draw.

Next up was Cliftonville from Northern Ireland.

They came off the back of 7-0 and 3-0 victorys so we knew this was a real test especially as we had some injured bodies.

We went 2-0 down and lost Aidan to injury so Luke came on 2nd half. The boys got 1 back through Jake from Dylan's corner.

The game then sparked into life with some heavy tackles going in. El Capitano John Ford rallied the boys again but time was against us and it finished 2-1 .

Day 2 started with a 1/4 final v Pearce Celtic from Cork. The boys went 1 up early on from a brilliant strike from Dylan. Kian made it 2-0 just before Half Time. Pearce Celtic got 1 back with possibly goal of the tournament . The boys hit straight back , on OG from a corner to make it 3-1 final score.

Straight in to a semi final v Portabello from Scotland, again we had some walking wounded and were behind early on .

The boys battled on but were beaten 4-0 by a very strong team who went on to win the tournament.

Overall a very enjoyable experience and some tremendous football played by our boys.

Back in the Norbreck Hotel the party was under way as our amazing U11s took home the silverware after a dramatic day of football.

Blackpool has been a really enjoyable experience for all. A brilliant tournament. Amazing friendly people, Blackpool promenade, and not forgetting the Norbreck Hotel. Thanks to all the parents and siblings for all the support.

Our u13s are a great group of guys, who we are all very proud of and who are a credit to the club and their families

We are already looking forward to our next adventure .