AFC Rushden & Diamonds Under 16s
Add Aces National Tournament Title to Super Season
AFC Rushden & Diamonds Under 16s Academy rounded off a Super Season by adding the Aces National Tournament title to their ever growing list of trophies.
Representing Northampton in the prestigious National Tournament, against sides from as far afield as London, Manchester, Portsmouth and Hull – Andy Peaks’ Young Diamonds progressed from a 5 match Group Phase without conceding a single goal – winning one of the fixtures 6-0.
In the last 16 and Quarter Final fixtures, the impressive defensive display continued with a 1-0 and 2-0 win to take them to the Semi-Final Stage. A hard fought 2-1 Victory against Stoke in the Semi-Final took the side to yet another National Final.
An impressive 1-0 Victory in the Final against the much fancied, pre-tournament favourites Leicester capped off a fantastic day and a phenomenal season for the AFC R&D Under 16s.
Reflecting on a great Season – Under 16s Coach (and First Team Manager) Andy Peaks commented – ‘I am hugely proud of what these Players have achieved this season. They have got stronger and stronger as the season has progressed and their appetite for success seems to grow with every game. To finish the season with two National Titles is fantastic and credit to each and every player that has been involved throughout the season. Winning the Aces Tournament with a record of Played 9, Won 8, Drawn 1 – having scored 18 and only conceded once is just incredible’.
AFC Rushden & Diamonds Academy Director – Ryan Farmer – commented – ‘What Peaksy and the boys have achieved this season is simply First Class. This is a really strong group and the success in the Aces National Tournament further justifies our decision to keep the squad together as an additional Under 18s Squad for the forthcoming (2019 / 2020 Season). This is further proof that alongside the current Under 18s / Under 21s Squads the future really is bright and the pathway within the Academy & Youth Section continues to strengthen’.
