The Northumberland FA Youth Team will play Durham FA in the final of the Association of Northern Counties Final today at Whitley Park (7:00pm kick off).

Local rivals Durham will play North for the second time this season after a 1-1 stalemate in Houghton le Spring earlier this year in the group stages of the competition.

Both teams progressed to the knockout stages after the tie; North beating Liverpool FA 4-0 in the semi-finals to set up a rematch – this time with the trophy at stake.

“We had four or five out injured against Liverpool, but with the full group of players I am confident going in the final against anyone,” said U18 head coach, Alan Thompson.

“That being said the players were absolutely outstanding from the first whistle to the last, playing good football and scoring good goals and I couldn’t be more proud of them.

“We expected a tough physical encounter, but we reassured the players that they are the best around and if they keep their heads and play their normal game they will win.

“We took our chances against Liverpool and that’s the difference in football at this level.”

Both teams go into the final with unbeaten records in the league as we look forward to a fierce contest this evening at Whitley Park between the North East’s top up and coming talents.

Entry on the gate at Whitley Park (NE12 9FA) is £2 for adults and £1 for concessions.