Doves Crowned Combination Cup Champions

26th April 2019

Second half goals from Carl Paterson and man of the match winner, Michael Laws, saw Cullercoats beat Prudhoe Youth Club 2-0 in the final of the Team Valley Carpets Combination Cup Final.

The final was hosted by Birtley Town FC and came seven days after the disappointment of a 4-3 defeat in the final of the Reeves Independent George Dobbins League Cup against Newcastle University.

Cullercoats were back to full strength and hoping to claim their first silverware of the season.

The first half was keenly fought, with both teams cancelling each other out, before heavy rain changed the playing conditions. 

Prudhoe ended the half on top, but it remained 0-0 at the break.

Cullercoats made the early running in the second half and created a string of half chances, before a lofted shot from Hylton Hub was parried onto the bar by the Prudhoe keeper.

The breakthrough came on 75 mins when Simon Wilson delivered an excellent free kick from the right, which Captain Carl Patterson headed into the top right hand corner of the net to make it 1-0 to Cullercoats.

Cullercoats defended resolutely as Prudhoe pressed for the equaliser and the win was secured on 88 mins when a Chrissy Connor run and cross into the box was brilliantly controlled and finished by striker, Michael Laws.

Prudhoe continued to press and had a late effort strike a post, but the game ended 2-0 to Cullercoats.

Michael Laws was awarded ‘man of the match’ following a great display up top and in support of the defence.

Cullercoats return to Northern Alliance First Division action on Saturday 27 April 2019, with an away game at Seaton Burn; KO at 2.30pm.

They also remain in contention for second place in the league and have a third cup final on Thursday 23 May 2019, when they meet Blyth Town in the FA Minor Cup Final. The game is pencilled in to take place at St. James’ Park, subject to confirmation.