The club’s next generation will be on show when a tight-knit Under-16s take to the field against Perth Glory this weekend.   The experiences of the winter season have bonded Ian Morris’ young side and victory in Saturday’s Under-16 Cup Final would be a fitting reward for a team that has come a long way in just six months.

“A Cup run which has taken us all the way to the final and competitive home and away series in Group B have provided the squad a number of challenges this year,” Morris said.   “It’s fantastic to have yet another one this Saturday and I am confident that the boys will 100% put in their best effort once again.”

“We’ve got a small squad and the players have responded admirably to every challenge, grown and learnt much in the process.   They love playing for Inglewood and have done the club proud in getting to the Cup Final.   Saturday is their chance to show how far they’ve come and what they are capable of.”

Inglewood eased their way into the Cup by defeating Noranda City 4-1 but faced a much sterner test against Stirling Lions, who were eliminated 3-2.   A 10-1 thrashing of Sorrento booked the Under-16s place in the last four where they showed great character to see off Cockburn City in a penalty shoot-out.

In making the Cup decider the Under-16s became Inglewood’s third finalists of the year, joining the Under-12s, who also play Glory on Saturday, and an Under-18 side which late last month succumbed to Cockburn City.   “We’ve had three Inglewood teams play in Cup Finals this year, which is great for the club,” Morris said.

“It’s a privilege to be playing Glory this weekend.   All their teams play a good style of football, they have the pick of the best players in the State and are very well coached.   We’re anticipating an entertaining game where both sets of players get the opportunity to showcase what they are about.”

The Under-16s squad is Dan Bright, Harrison Cambourakis, Harley Curran, Paul Czirr, Luke Della Posta, Nic Durham, Tyler Garner, Mitch Haywood, Patrick Koi, Brian Mashingaidze, Conor McCann, Sam Moffat, Liam Petley and Harrison Worton.   The team officials are Ian Morris (coach) and David McCann (manager) along with John Bright (linesman).

Under-16 Cup Final

Inglewood United vs Perth Glory
Saturday 13 August @ Kingsway Sporting Complex, Wanneroo
Kick-off 2.30pm