Double delight for Hotspur Development – treble is the next target
NWCFA DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE CUP FINAL
Penmaenmawr Phoenix Development 0
Holyhead Hotspur Development 4 (Garmey 6, Francis 13, Rowlands 26, Buckley 85)
West Division league kings Hotspur Development will have a treble in their sights this weekend when they take on East Division title-winners Kinmel Bay Development in a ‘champion-of-champions’ clash at Parc Meurig, Bethesda (2 pm).
With the title already long in the bag, Hotspur completed a double by lifting the League Cup at Cae Rhosfain, Gaerwen, last Sunday.
Goals from Lucas Garmey, Reece Francis, Jordan Rowlands and Cameron Buckley saw the Holy Islanders to a convincing 4-0 victory over Penmaenmawr Phoenix Development.
Hotspur manager Scott Hakesley takes up the story…..
“We arrived at Gaerwen knowing we were in for a tough game and had to be at our best to take home the silverware.
“Penmaenmawr Phoenix are always one of the favourites in their division having previously had the experience of reaching the league cup final once against myself two years ago.
“Having had a very good season, we wanted to set the tone early.
“We had a great start, getting straight into our stride when Luke Jones found 16 year old Lucas Garmey to score and settle the nerves on the day.
“10 minutes later and cup final MoTM Reece Thomas Francis, also just 16, with a great solo effort found the bottom corner.
“From there we felt in control and could feel it was going to be our day.
“On the 30th minute a corner came in as planned, Dan Doyle dragging the Phoenix forward to the front post then flicked on to Jordan Rowlands to find himself getting up highest to head home.
“That took us into the break 3-0 and plan A working with plan B in our back pocket we felt it wasn’t needed. A relaxed half time knowing for 10 minutes nothing silly would make it very difficult for Pen Phoenix to come back.
“As both teams made all changes, in the hot conditions the game became very stop start. Even though Pen had their chances second half with credit continuing to ask us questions they were facing the best defence in the league and it was showing.
“As the game was coming to an end Reece Thomas found in-form Cameron Buckley who sealed the cup and we now knew the silverware was coming back to Holyhead.
“Today’s game was a testament to our season and squad. With 7 players missing through injury and holidays, I think it goes to show from day one all players have been zoned in to achieve the best possible outcome and they should be proud of themselves. I know as staff wee are.
“Congratulations to Penmaenmawr on reaching the cup final and being outstanding opponents.
“Thanks to Gaerwen for hosting us. And the officiating on the day was second to none which was nice to see.
“We now train again on Tuesday ready for another tough test on the 17th vs Kinmel Bay at Bethesda Athletic’s ground, 2 pm kick off in the league final.
“Thank you to all travelling fans, see you Sunday for one last push before we look to go again with a new challenge.”