The final round of games in the inaugural Cwpan Gary Speed concluded on Sunday, with Northern Ireland lifting the trophy after a thrilling week of youth football.
Following a tournament packed with late drama and penalty shoot-outs, Cymru hosted Northern Ireland in a winner-takes-all clash at Colwyn Bay, while Japan faced Gibraltar at Ruthin.
At Ruthin, Japan cruised to a comfortable 5-0 win over Gibraltar, finishing the group with 5 points, thanks to a win and a penalty shoot-out victory earlier in the week against Cymru. Gibraltar, meanwhile, ended the tournament in fourth place with zero points.
All eyes, however, were on the decisive game at Colwyn Bay. Cymru entered the tie with 4 points, knowing a win would see them crowned champions. Their opponents, Northern Ireland, had taken maximum points from their first two games and were looking to maintain their perfect record.
In a tightly contested match, Cymru broke the deadlock midway through the second half when Bobby Lewis fired home his third goal in as many games, latching onto a low cross from Ralphie Beckwith. Lewis’ goal continued his fine form throughout the competition and gave the hosts hope.
However, Northern Ireland struck back late, with Daniel McCarron and Harry Hughes scoring in the closing minutes to seal a 2-1 victory and secure the title.
Despite the heartbreaking loss for Cymru, the tournament meant much more than just results. It was a celebration of the life and legacy of Gary Speed, a Cymru football icon whose influence continues to inspire future generations.
Throughout the week, crowds of local supporters turned out, and the tournament welcomed a number of special guests. Notably, Gary Speed’s mother, Carol, attended all of Cymru’s matches at Colwyn Bay, even joining the players on the pitch for a pre-match welcome.
The competition was officially opened on Tuesday night before Cymru’s match against Japan, with Head Coach Craig Bellamy leading the ceremony. Other attendees included former Cymru international Kevin Ratcliffe, national age-grade coaches Matty Jones, Craig Knight, Chris Gunter, and several of Speed’s former teammates from Deeside Schools FA.
Looking ahead, Adrian Harvie’s Cymru MU16 side will now prepare for their next fixtures during the October international window, building on the positives from an unforgettable week of football.
