An U18 Midweek Cup win is long overdue
A WIN in the Veo Suffolk Under-18 Midweek Cup win is clearly overdue for Bury Town, according to joint manager Daren Hayward.
Bury Town take on Haverhill Rovers in the final at The Jobserve Community Stadium, home of Colchester United FC, on Wednesday, kick-off 7.30pm.
And after knocking out AFC Sudbury, who have won the cup in each of the last seven completed seasons, Hayward is understandably keen to go on and lift the cup.
The club’s only previous appearance in the final came in the 2017-18 season when they lost 3-1 to AFC Sudbury at Colchester United FC.
Hayward, who is joint manager with James Jolland, said: “Bury Town Football Club and Bury as a town, are delighted our young U18 team are able to compete for the highest age group honours in county football.
“A win is clearly overdue for such as prestigious Suffolk club, and it would be wonderful to be successful and lay down a marker for future teams and managers.
“Having beaten AFC Sudbury in the semi-final, I’d be lying if I said we're just turning up to enjoy the day. Of course, we'd like to win but acknowledge Haverhill Rovers as formidable opposition.”
Haverhill Rovers have been fielding what is effectively an U16 side side in the competition, but Hayward pointed out: “We also have several U15s and U16s, but accept we’re playing in an U18 competition.
“Unlike Haverhill's former Academy players, James and I have nurtured most of our team from Colts, to EJA and now the Thurlow Nunn Youth League. It’s a fair achievement and something we are incredibly proud of.”
Hayward acknowledged that for some of the players involved in the final it will be the highlight of their footballing careers.
“Firstly, it’s a great event to be part of and reflects the blood, sweat and tears. Unlike many clubs, we are volunteers who spend our time developing and supporting local players.
“For some, this will be the highlight of their careers and others will go on to play at various adult levels. We hope everyone involved remembers this occasion and looks back on it fondly.
“Thank you to Suffolk FA and Colchester United for such a great opportunity,” he added.
The Bury Town Under-18 square are pictured above.
