Doncaster Rovers had two teams competing in the Premier League Kicks Cup that took place in Liverpool last week.
The football season may have ended for many, but 47 clubs from both the Premier League and Football League were represented by a total of 70 teams of young people who took to the pitches at The Jeffrey Humble Playing Fields in Liverpool, hoping to claim the last bit of silverware this season- the Premier League Kicks Cup.
The Premier League Kicks Cup is the culmination of a season-long community programme run by the Premier League and Sport England in disadvantaged areas, to allow those who traditionally do not participate in organised sporting activities the use of facilities and equipment.
The Doncaster Rovers boys’ team made up of 8 youngsters that attend PL Kicks sessions in Balby every week were handed a tough group, with matches against Wigan, Leicester and Liverpool.
After two draws and a win in the group stages, the boys’ went on to play Oldham and Notts County winning both games, before losing out to Blackburn and Liverpool.
The long day that started with a 7.45am meet at the Keepmoat Stadium, was concluded with a 3-1 win over Everton Football Club to ensure a strong finish for Rovers.
The Doncaster Rovers PL Kicks girls’ team went a step better than the boys, reaching a group final where they played Stoke City. The match went right to the wire and the girls were eventually knocked out on penalties by the Premier League Club.
Speaking of the trip, Club Doncaster’s Foundation Coach Tom Butterworth said: “It was a great day out for everyone involved and a unique opportunity for the boys and girls to play against the likes of Liverpool, Everton and Manchester United.
“Everyone really enjoyed the day, we came up against some really talented opposition and the kids have learnt a lot."
As well as the many matches that took place throughout the day, participants of the Kicks Cup also took part in on-site workshops receiving advice and support from professional coaches.
It was a fantastic opportunity to reward the young people for their continued attendance at Kicks sessions in Doncaster to then go on and represent the Club at a National event.
Speaking about the event Premier League Community Development Executive, Nick Perchard said: “Premier League Kicks is about connecting with communities, which complements the work MYA’s sports initiatives deliver throughout the year.”
Doncaster Rovers U16 Boys:
Doncaster Rovers U16 Girls: