Motspur

Motspur Park win the Thorpe Park U13 Youth Cup

Salehi Saba shines to bring cup home to Motspur Park

Motspur Park's resilience and individual brilliance proved decisive in tight U13 contest. 

In the highly anticipated Surrey County Cup U13 final at Meadowbank, Motspur Park edged out Sutton United Colts with a thrilling 2-1 victory. The match saw moments of brilliance, fierce battles, and high drama, providing an enthralling spectacle for the 167 spectators in attendance.

From the outset, Motspur Park settled into their rhythm quickly, with Milo Venzano Peters setting the tone. In just the 3rd minute, Peters had a promising chance, though his effort was comfortably saved by Sutton's goalkeeper. The first ten minutes were dominated by Motspur Park's high press, which left Sutton United struggling to gain a foothold in the game.

A captivating duel unfolded between Peters and Sutton's Donovan, hinting at a match-long contest that would not disappoint. In the 21st minute, Motspur Park thought they had taken the lead, but their celebrations were cut short by the assistant referee's correct offside call. As the half progressed, Sutton United began to find their stride, creating their first significant opportunity in the 25th minute during a goalmouth scramble, although they failed to get a shot away.

Just as it seemed Sutton would head into halftime level, Milo Venzano Peters produced a moment of magic. From well over 30 yards out, he unleashed a stunning strike that soared into the net, giving Motspur Park a 1-0 lead at the break.

A light drizzle began to fall over Meadowbank as the second half commenced, with both teams hoping the slick pitch would quicken the pace of the game. The opening minutes of the half were cagey, as Sutton United prioritised defensive solidity. It wasn't until the 9th minute of the second half that Motspur Park created another clear-cut chance, with Mohammad Salehi Saba doubling their lead and putting Motspur Park in firm control.

The second goal galvanized Sutton United Colts into action. Determined to claw their way back into the contest, they fashioned several opportunities. Notably, Greenland and Charlie Corter each came close but were unable to find the back of the net. Motspur Park's James Parkes put in a stellar defensive performance, working tirelessly to maintain the clean sheet.

As the game entered its final stages, Sutton United's persistence paid off. In the 67th minute, Cody Cole pounced on a loose ball, firing home to reduce the deficit and set up a tense finale. Sutton United threw everything at Motspur Park in the dying minutes, but Motspur's defence held firm, securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory.

This competitive final showcased the best of youth football, with both teams delivering spirited performances. Motspur Park's resilience and moments of individual brilliance proved decisive, earning them a well-deserved triumph in the Surrey County Cup U13 final.

Attendance: 167

POTM: (Motspur Park) Mohammad Salehi Saba

Goals: Motspur Park (27m) Milo Venzano Peters (39m)

Goals: Sutton United Colts (67) Cody Cole