Kingsbridge

Kingsbridge Community College have won the South Devon U16s Cup final, defeating Torquay Boys' Grammar School 7-6 on penalties after a pulsating clash to claim the Hudson Bowl.

The match had finished 2-2 after 90 minutes, but it was Kingsbridge who prevailed in the shoot-out to claim the cup for only the second time in their history.

Torquay took the lead when one of their players was left unmarked after Kingsbridge failed to clear a corner, resulting in a simple tap-in.

After half-time, Torquay were much the better team and Kingsbridge had to be thankful for their defence and in particular Richard Teague, who made a host of fine saves to keep Kingsbridge in the game.

Eventually, after a few substitutions in the middle of the second half, Kingsbridge came to life. It was a powerful shot from Rhys Widger that brought about a fantastic save from the Torquay goalkeeper.

This was the catalyst for the Kingsbridge comeback. From the resulting corner Matthew Soloman drove home the equaliser.

Five minutes later, after the ball had rebounded off both post and goalkeeper, Tom Popham had space at the far post to stab the ball home to give Kingsbridge the lead.

Torquay threw everything at Kingsbridge but again Teague was equal to the threat.

Just as the Kingsbridge supporters thought the game was won a Torquay striker got through and finished calmly.

The teams were still locked together at 2-2 after 30 minutes of extra-time, which meant penalties.

Eighteen consecutive penalties in the shoot-out hit the target, but after the fourth penalty of sudden death was saved by Teague it was left to Jack Massey to score the winner.

Kingsbridge coach Gary Burman said: "I'm delighted with the team's effort in every game of this great cup run and the players got what they deserved for all their hard work and the superb attitude they had on and off the pitch."