Brixington Blues U11's made the short trip to take part in the annual Cranbrook Youth Football Tournament to defend the cup they won twelve months ago.

As with previous tournaments this summer, Brixington divided their forces to line up as ‘Blues’ and ‘Utd’ for the six-a-side format.

Both sides had a mixed time in the group stages, winning, losing and drawing matches, but doing enough to finish third and second retrospectively. Henry Turner, Riley West and Jon Creese hit the back of the net for Utd, with Ollie Morgan and Jye Hill scoring for Blues. Fantastic saves from Lucas Marles and Oscar Trump ensured that both teams had enough points to progress.

The quarter finals now awaited and Utd faced Crediton. An even match was played out with both teams challenging each others goal. Unfortunately for Utd, a slip in midfield allowed Crediton a free chance on the Utd goal, which they duly took. The final whistle blew shortly afterwards, the game finishing 1-0. Utd were out!

The Blues faced Cranbrook in the quarter final. A tense 0-0 draw after extra time led to penalties. A fine strike from Owen Looker and two outstanding saves from Lucas Marles saw Blues progress to the semi final.

Next up, Whipton. Blues dominated for the majority of the match, but were finding it difficult to find the back of the net. Just as it looked like extra time was on the cards again, up stepped Ollie Morgan to drive in a left-footed strike.

Whipton threw everyone forward for the final minutes, but solid defensive work from Ren Woodhall and Lucas Hill ensured Blues were in the final for the second year running.

Crediton, who knocked Utd out in the quarter final stages, met Blues in the final. An even match was just edged in Blues favour with some fantastic passing. This led to captain Owen Looker finding the ball at his feet 10 yards from the Crediton goal.

A fantastic strike left the keeper with no chance to make a save and Blues went on to win 1-0 and retain their trophy!

Exmouth Journal: Brixington Blues at Cranbrook tournamentBrixington Blues at Cranbrook tournament (Image: Brixington Blues)