Football: Hopwood Hall College win Greater Manchester Cup

Hopwood Hall team with the County Cup

Hopwood Hall College football academy capped off a superb season with a cup final win against Aquinas College.

After knocking out other football academies such as FC United on the way to the final, the Hopwood team played the Stockport college in the final at Stockport County's Edgely Park Stadium.

Plenty of chances were created by both sides but it took until 44th minute before Hopwood Hall’s Reece Axon opened the scoring with a perfectly timed run behind the Aquinas defence.

Hopwood captain Ben Matthews made it two early in the second half with a far-post header.

Late in the game, Aquinas punished Hopwood’s sloppy play with a goal from outside the area.

Aquinas’ came close to an equaliser when their number nine struck what looked like a certain goal, but Hopwood’s Jordan Rigg produced what his manager described as a ‘Gordon Banks’ save, getting down low and pushing the chance round the post.

Rigg’s magic proved to be the spark the team needed to get a grip back on play, pushing Aquinas back until the 92nd to win and take the title of the top college team in Greater Manchester.

Rob Johnson, Hopwood Hall College Football Academy Manager, said: “All staff and students are really proud of a fantastic season winning back-to-back titles.

“Winning is great, but winning playing attractive football is even better.

"Also, winning 16 league games in a row is a massive achievement and it shows how special these boys have been.

“I've been lucky to work with a terrific bunch of lads who have bought into the idea of keep the ball when we have it, win it back quickly when we don't. We've also worked on a rotational policy (if you're not in the squad this week, you are the week after) so every one of the players has been instrumental in winning the league.

“Adding the County Cup is the cherry on the cake to this season. I am immensely proud of all the boys and I want to wish the best of luck to those who have completed their education with us and will be moving on in September.”