DESPITE a close rivalry, Vale Junior Soccer League sides Barry Athletic and Porthkerry Panthers showed that they have nothing but respect for each other in an U13s Cup final that was played in a tremendous spirit.
The game at the Jenner Park stadium was a frantic affair but the Panthers were the better team in the first half and deservedly led 1-0 at half-time through a well-taken Joe Mellors goal.
Athletic had the better of the second half and got their reward with a Joshua Peets' finish from just inside the box.
Extra-time was tense, with both teams having chances, but the game finished 1-1 and, in the lottery of penalties, Panthers held their nerve to achieve victory.
Man of the match for the Athletic went to Joe Allwood who was outstanding.
The coaching staff of the Athletic would like to thank their long-term sponsors, TEMA Fabrications and Container Services Wales Ltd, and particular thanks to O'Shea's Fish & Chip Shop, of Barry Island, for the generosity shown by providing the post-match food.
The coaching staff would also like to thank the parents for their continued support and to congratulate the players on their tremendous effort in reaching their second final in two years. Athletic squad: Matthew Mayor, Sam Montgomery, Alfie Davies, Dan Barnett, Joe Allwood, Rhys Woolmer, Evan Wells, Conner Bright, Jack Such, Will Drew, Jordan Jones, Joshua Peets and Lawrence Walpole.
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