Carlisle City Juniors U15 v Crusaders U16

Match Officials

Referee – Lee Tedford
Assistant Referee – Harry Hufton
Assistant Referee – Austen Davidson
4th Official – John Burns

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Cleator Moor Celtic FC was the host venue for the first Cumberland FA Finals of the 2023 season. The Under 16 Finals have now become the curtain raiser during March to support the players (and parents) studying for exams impacting the traditional Finals weekend in May when the exam period is well underway.

There was a slight delay to kick off due to the Girls County Cup Final going to penalties. So once the pre-match formalities were over, the game kicked off.

The opening exchanges in the game were even. Crusaders took the lead just 11 minutes into the Final with a header from centre back Alfie McAuley. The Carlisle City goalkeeper made a good attempt to keep it out down low to his left, getting a hand to it but it ended up in the back of the net.

In the remainder of the first half, Crusaders had a handful of decent chances but were unable to double their lead. They went in 1-0 to the good at the break.

HALF TIME | Carlisle City Juniors U15 0 -1 Crusaders U16

Carlisle City came out full of energy at the start of the second half and playing some nice football but Crusaders kept them at bay. 

Crusaders almost doubled their lead roughly 10 minutes into the second half, with the Carlisle City goalkeeper making an excellent one on one save. The resulting corner was tipped onto the bar by the Carlisle City goalkeeper and a Crusaders player following in was denied from close range.

In the 58th minute Carlisle City drew level as an excellent ball over the top sent Alfie Broatch through on goal. He took the ball into the box and finished calmly past the oncoming Crusaders goalkeeper.

The remainder of normal time was a very even contest, with no real chances of note. The score at the full time whistle was 1-1, taking the tie to extra time.

FULL TIME | Carlisle City Juniors U15 1 - 1 Crusaders U16

Both sides battled very hard in extra time, again with no real chances of note either way, taking the tie to penalties.

EXTRA TIME | Carlisle City Juniors U15 1 - 1 Crusaders U16

Last season’s runners up, Crusaders were victorious in the penalty shootout winning 5-4 to lift the trophy!



Commiserations to Carlisle City U15 who played their part in an exciting Final and will have another opportunity next season in the competition.

Cumberland FA would like to thank the hosts Cleator Moor Celtic FC who supported the Cup Final experience for both teams and the Match Officials.

Photos, courtesy of Martin and Linda Perry can be viewed in our Facebook album.

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The highlights will be available to watch on our YouTube page in due course.

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