A Memorable Day For Glossop Juniors

Thu 30th October 2014 | Glossop North End
By Ian Templeman

Viewers watching the draw for the First Round of the FA Cup on BBC2 on Monday evening may have spotted some youngsters in Glossop North End kits among the gathered audience.

The Glossop Under 10’s side received a special invitation to attend the draw for the first round of the FA Cup at St George’s Park. Manager Ben Mills tells the story of their day.

“Ever since Liam Rooney from Derbyshire FA invited a side from the under 10's to attend St Georges Park , home of the England team, and watch the FA Cup 1st Round draw live, there was a buzz around the camp and all players and spectators enjoyed a day they will savour for many years to come.

“The under 10's met at Glossop North End's Surrey Street at 11.30am to take the coach put on by the club for 10 lucky players and 25 just as lucky spectators, to head off to St Georges Park for a tournament before watching the draw hosted by Mark Chapman live on BBC2.

“The coach bounced to "Glossop Juniors Blue and White Army" and arrived in plenty of time for the tournament, where the under 10's were one of two sides from Derbyshire, two from Birmingham, two from Staffordshire and two from Leicestershire to take part.

“Before the game I spoke of making the under 10's, Glossop Juniors, Derbyshire and English grassroots football proud, and they didn’t let us down.

“Playing on the David Beckham pitch, they played Elford Boys first and in a short 14 minute game were unable to make all their pressure count, with the Elford keeper making some fine stops.

“Game 2 saw them take on Ibstock United where they cruised to victory with a fine display, Jack Rawding bagging a hat trick, Harry Vennard with two goals, Jo Jo Mills and Lewis Snape with one apiece.

“In Game 3 disaster struck. After being one up through Jack Rawding they conceded against the run of play and in the final kick off the game failed to clear a corner and were beaten in a game they had dominated with possession and attacking football.

“They therefore qualified 2nd in the group for the 3rd/4th play off against Pride Park Juniors and capped their last game in front of over 300 players and spectators with their best football of the day against a strong side.

“ Jo Jo Mills converted a fine free kick David Beckham would have been proud of , before Harry Vennard finished another quick move with aplomb. Jack Rawding's mazey wing play set up Jo Jo again who "Carricked" the Pride Park Keeper.

“Pride Park got one back just after half time before Ethan Lumb executed another rasping free kick and Ollie McKay scored a thunderous header off a Lumb corner to cap a fine midfield display.

“Both finalists commented they were glad they were not facing the mighty Glossop Juniors after this consummate display of creative, attacking football ! 13 goals scored, 3 conceded, the finalists scored 7 between them all day!

“The players and parents then went on to have their photo taken with the FA Cup before the live draw conducted by Phil Neville and Derbyshire Coach of the Year Tammy Snape from Tintwistle Athletic.

“The boys enjoyed the company of the England Ladies squad and made quite an impression before Phil Neville signed their shirts and they watched as the draw was made. The highlight was probably Martin Rawdings positioning behind Phil with his Glossop North End scarf in full view of the cameras!

Myself, John Chattington and Mathew Vennard were proud of all the boys performances and behaviour on a long but fantastic day which will hopefully inspire the next generation of FA Cup heroes.

“Our thanks go to all at Derbyshire FA, St Georges Park and Glossop Juniors for making the day possible and to the under 10's who exude talent, determination and everything that is good about our club!”

The Juniors Playing Squad on the day was McKenzie Dickson (GK), Teddy Smith, James Chattington, Jo Jo Mills , Ollie McKay, Lewis Snape, Harry Vennard, Ethan Lumb and Jack Rawding.

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