Here's this week's youth team round up from Dan Summerfield
Darlington FC U13's cup journey reached new heights with an electrifying quarter-final win over Hurworth Albion U13, decided in a dramatic penalty shootout after a pulsating 3-3 draw. Here's how the action unfolded on an unforgettable day for grassroots football.
The game began with Darlington FC U13 dictating the tempo, showcasing their ability to keep possession and play smart, cohesive football. They immediately settled into their rhythm, with crisp passing and intelligent movement, setting the tone for an enthralling contest. However, despite their early dominance, it was Hurworth Albion who struck first, capitalising on a rare Darlington defensive lapse. A penalty was awarded to Hurworth, and their forward calmly slotted it home to give them the lead.
The setback didn’t faze Darlington, who demonstrated their fighting spirit and resilience. Their persistence paid off when Lukas Ellis, a bundle of energy up front, refused to give up on his initial effort. After his first shot was saved, Ellis pounced on the rebound with clinical precision to level the game. The equaliser ignited a renewed sense of urgency in Darlington, and the match exploded into life.
It didn’t take long for Darlington to assert themselves further. A free kick from the edge of the box presented an opportunity, and Thomas Orton stepped up with ice-cold confidence. What followed was nothing short of spectacular: Orton unleashed a perfectly struck effort that soared over the wall and nestled into the top corner, leaving the Hurworth keeper with no chance. The strike was met with roaring celebrations as Darlington took a 2-1 lead.
Hurworth Albion, however, were not going down without a fight. Their equaliser came in dramatic fashion, a ferocious strike from outside the box that caught everyone off guard, rifling into the net. With the momentum swinging, Hurworth capitalised again shortly after, finding a third goal with a clever finish that put them back in the driving seat at 3-2.
With their cup dreams hanging in the balance, Darlington needed a moment of magic, and Finley Robson delivered in style. Picking up the ball from 25 yards out, Robson turned expertly to create space for himself and unleashed a thunderbolt of a shot that arrowed into the top corner. The strike was nothing short of breathtaking, a “goal of the month” contender that left the crowd in awe and brought the game back to level terms at 3-3.
With no separating the sides after full time, the game went to penalties, a true test of nerve for both teams. Every player showed incredible composure, slotting their penalties with confidence. But it was Luke Price, Darlington’s heroic goalkeeper, who stole the show in the shootout. Price made an outstanding save on Hurworth’s fourth penalty, diving low to his right and denying a crucial attempt.
The pressure was now on Maxwell Hunter, who stepped up for Darlington’s fifth and decisive penalty. With the weight of the game on his shoulders, Hunter remained calm and buried the ball into the back of the net, sparking wild celebrations from the Darlington players, coaches, and supporters.
Final Thoughts Darlington FC U13’s victory was a massive testament to their grit, determination, and quality. Both teams played with immense skill and sportsmanship, delivering a showcase of what grassroots football is all about. From Lukas Ellis’s never-say-die attitude to Finley Robson’s moment of brilliance and Luke Price’s match-winning save, this was a game that will live long in the memory of everyone involved.
Darlington’s young stars now march on to the semi-finals, brimming with belief and ready to take on whatever challenge comes next. One thing is certain: this team has the heart of champions.