On Saturday our under 16s and under 18s teams were invited to face Stoke City academy as part of the inaugural Peter Handyside Cup.

The trophy has been set up by both clubs to honour Handyside who had passed earlier this year, a defender who represented both sides during his playing career.

Handyside made over 200 appearances for the Mariners and was notably part of the sides that won promotion to the First Division and lifted the Auto Windscreens Shield at Wembley.

His move to Stoke followed where he featured 88 times also sealing promotion.

Last Saturday’s games saw Town’s under 18s side fall to a 4-1 defeat whilst our u16s/u17s were victorious against their Stoke counterparts.

Stoke’s u18s were crowned the first winners of the Handyside Cup despite Harry Shipstone giving the young Mariners an early lead, a strong fightback from the potters saw them comfortable winners in the end.

Our u16s/u17s however came out on top in a 2-3 win with Carlo Midwinter scoring twice, either side of Jalloh’s effort meaning both clubs tasted victory and had the honour of lifting the trophy.

Both fixtures are set to be held annually in memory of the former City captain, who passed away in February, aged 49.

A fitting tribute to a player loved by both clubs.

UTM