A strong Petworth Panthers team won the U9 Kathy & Peter Wilson Cup 1 nil after a pulsating match with Chichester City Youth Whites.

Our boys came into this match after coming through a tough group in second place to Petworth, who we lost 6-1 to during the group stage.

However, 3 wins and a draw secured second place and a semi final against Barnham Blue, which went to penalties after a 1 all draw during normal time. Chi Whites managed to score every penalty to secure the final spot.

When the final got underway, Chi were facing a strong breeze and were on the defensive for most of the first half. Courageous defending from Frankie and Mark, plus multiple saves from Rupert kept the score to 1 nil at half time and all to play for.

With the wind at their backs the match changed, and Chi Whites created chances. Dynamic play from Oskar and Leo, with nice touches from Char, Jimmy, Seb and William had Petworth on the back foot for large parts of the second half.

As time ran out, Harry was left to defend on his own and every other player was urged forward in a last-ditch attempt to force penalties. At the death a shot from Char was nearly the moment, but it was well saved by the Petworth keeper.

Chichester City Youth U9 White did themselves proud and they gave everything! Congratulations to Petworth on their Cup victory, and well done to the boys for their Runners Up trophies.