Sutherland Association snares Frank Broughton Cup glory

Sutherland earned their right to contest the final by defeating a very gallant Ku Ring Gai 2-0 in a semi final full of excitement and it was not until late in the match that Sutherland gained the upper hand with their late second goal.
Illawarra were in the final courtesy of a very dramatic win over a talented Central Coast Association outfit with a Golden Goal in the very first minute of extra time after both sides staged a wonderful exhibition of football to finish at nil all at the end of normal playing time.
4pm on the final day saw Sutherland Association line up against Illawarra Association before a crowd of 400 people as the sun slipped away and the lights at Valentine set the stage for a classic finale to a great tournament. 
The football displayed by both sides was equal to the ?occasion? and the large crowd was thrilled by the high standard of play and skills on show by these eleven year old superstars of the future.  The match was a very fast game with neither side showing the signs of five games in three days and it was Sutherland who went to the lead early after a lucky goal in the first half.  Not to be outdone Illawarra reminded Sutherland there were two teams in this game and equalized before half time.
It was only late in the second half (as in their semi final) that the Sutherland juggernaut wore down a very gallant and courageous Illawarra with two absolutely brilliant team goals to forge away and eventually grab a 3-1 win.   Sutherland was fantastic and truly deserved of their tremendous win under the stars before a very enthusiastic crowd of parents and supporters.
Illawarra were presented with their medals by Sydney FC VIP Brendan Renaud and Sutherland were rewarded with their presentation of medals by Sydney FC?s young superstar Adam Biddle. 
Both Sydney FC representatives were very impressed with the final and Biddle particularly expressed his delight at being present for such an occasion and was most pleased to award the MVP in the Final award to Sutherland?s powerhouse Jack Lombo who was selected by HPU?s Paul Bentvelzen and Norm Boardman who were often noticed busily identifying talented players all weekend.  
The Frank Broughton Cup was presented to Sutherland Association by Football NSW Chairman Dr Jim Forrest who eagerly watched the day?s play unfold and he paid particular tribute to the courage of Illawarra in their gallant attempt at victory whilst also acknowledging the outstanding talent and great victory by the Sutherland team.
Amongst many visitors attending the 2008 Frank Broughton Cup were Football NSW Board members, Mr Frank Wilson and Mr Rob Laws, together with CEO Mr Michael Quarmby and General Manager Mr Ian Holmes.
Larry Grant
Competition Secretary
Community Football