Scarborough Ladies Under-18s shine despite Yorkshire Cup final defeat

Conceding an early goal to Brighouse Town, arguably the best team in Yorkshire, the omens did not look good, but a stellar performance in goal from Amber Colling allowed her teammates to build in confidence, and when Anna Bowman curled home a free-kick midway through the half, it was game on.

Scarborough then doubled their tally when centre-back Daisy Willis turned home a Bowman corner and Lara Peasgood-Capilla put the Seasiders 3-1 up just before the break.

Clearly rattled, Brighouse came out firing for the second half, and were soon back on terms with two goals from corners, both stabbed home despite valiant attempts to clear.

The thrilling encounter then flowed end to end before Brighouse finally nosed in front when Colling was powerless to shop a lofted shot dropping just under the bar.

Boro piled players forward in desperation for the final few minutes and despite coming close to an equaliser were caught out on the break, allowing Brighouse to notch a fifth.

Coach Owen Willis, in his last game coaching the U18s, said: “Having conceded over 30 goals to Brighouse in three previous encounters, the turnaround of form in the final was nothing short of miraculous.

“The pride, effort and togetherness of the squad in the latter part of the season has been amazing, and will be a great foundation for next season and beyond.”