The final of the Sussex John Davey Cup (Under-16s), sponsored by Premier Sports, is due to take place on Sunday 15 March 2020 between Select Soccer Eastbourne and Worthing.

Select Soccer Eastbourne vs. Worthing 
Sussex John Davey Cup Final (Under-16s) - sponsored by Premier Sports 
Date: Sunday 15 March 2020
Kick-off: 2.30pm
Venue: Sussex County FA, Culver Road, Lancing, West Sussex, BN15 9AX

Select Soccer and Worthing are two teams that are both looking to excel themselves and have done so by playing up an age group. Select Soccer are competing in the Mid Sussex Under-17s League whilst Worthing are playing in the Southern Combination Under-18s League.

This is something that Select Soccer manager, Josh Bullen, thinks this is testament to both sides reaching the final: “They’re playing in the County Under-18s League and we’re playing in the Mid Sussex Under-17s. I think they’re a fairly new side this season, but I’ve seen a lot of their players but I’m looking forward to the game and I know the boys are too.” 

Similarly from Worthing boss Andy Alman he has nothing but admiration for Select Soccer: “We’re obviously very excited. It’s a massive achievement to get to the County Cup Final and above all else I’m pleased for the lads because they’ve put in so much hard work to get to such a prestigious final.

“Select are a good side and are also challenging themselves playing up an age group which is something we felt we had to do and for them to do the same that’s very admirable.

“I think last year they won the Sussex Sunday Cup against Eastbourne Borough who we know very well and we know how tough a task that is. 

For them to beat them in a final, you’ve only got to admire them so we know it’s going to be a tough challenge but one I feel my lads are up for.”

For Select Soccer, their formation wasn’t accidental on the back of parents wanting somewhere for their kid to play. It was formed by coaches who wanted a platform to showcase their obsession for improving youth talent. 

The rewards that come with that for Josh Bullen is what has given him the drive to go on: “We established this side four years ago and season on season they’ve won titles and got promotions. Last year we made either the quarter-finals or the semi-finals of the county cup but never the final so it’s a big achievement for the boys.

“I’ve been with some of them since the age of 10 so it’s been unbelievable, and we’ve got so many memories. They may not necessarily be the best players in Sussex, but they’ve worked hard and so that’s testament to them.”

The future is also looking very bright for Worthing who are thriving at all levels. The senior team are looking good bets for promotion and have a youth setup with a great pathway to it. 

Andy Alman is elated about future of the club and speaks highly of the setup: “Worthing is having such a good run at the moment; things are so bright for this football club. You even look at the Under-18s who are thriving and winning their league but what’s really exciting is the amount of players that are getting opportunities in the first team.

“We’re seeing the pathway that was everyone’s dream when it was setup and seeing that come to fruition. You see players like Fin (Stevens) and Ricky (Aguiar) in the first team and Ty (Mthunzi) playing in the Senior Cup Semi-final it’s fantastic to see.

“Ultimately as well, we see the youth teams doing so well but also our women’s team sometimes get a little forgotten and they’ve won 13 out of 13 this season and are doing magnificently.”

Entry prices for the final are as follows:
£4.00 Adult (17+)
£2.00 Concession (65+ and students with valid student ID card)
FREE Child (16 and under)
£1.50 Official Match Day Programme

For further details about the Sussex John Davey Cup please contact Competitions:

Competitions
T: 01903 753547
E: Competitions@SussexFA.com