Barry Town United’s youth development team have reached their first FAW cup final in 36 years after beating Pontypridd in Penalties.
Barry edged a 2-2 draw against Pontypridd at the STM glass stadium in Bridgend on Sunday, March 17 before going on to win the match 4-2 in a penalty shootout.
Manager Damion Flynn told the Barry and District News that he was delighted with the win and was full of praise for his side.
“I feel a real sense of pride, as I know what the squad has been through throughout the season where we have had a few ups and downs.
“Over the last five weeks we lost a lot of key players through injury or illness and to be able to get them back for the semi-final and to get the result I feel happy for the players.”
Barry was the first on the scoresheet, with captain Drew Perrett scoring the only goal in the first half of the match.
It wasn’t long before Pontypridd equalised through striker Joe Baynon who scored midway through the second half at the 62nd minute.
Barry bounced back after Keaton Cooke's shot was deflected off defender Ethan Akram for an own goal three minutes later.
But it was Ponty striker Cole Mase who took the game to penalties after scoring an equaliser in the 81st minute.
Barry went on to win the penalty shootout 4-2 with Keaton Cooke scoring the winning penalty.
Flynn added: “This group has been outstanding during our FAW Youth Cup run because they dug in and got themselves over the line across two penalty shootouts in the Quarter and Semi-final so I am pleased for them.
“It’s the first time the club of the youth team at the club have reached the final of the FAW Youth Cup since 1988.”
Barry with face Britton Ferry in the FAW Youth Cup final on Sunday, April 14 with a venue to be announced.
He added: “I think we are going to be the underdogs going into the final because Britton Ferry is a fantastic team and they have got some good individual players.
"I do feel a certain sense of relief because all the pressure is off. After all, we know we are the underdogs. I feel confident as we have got a lot of our players back for the final.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here