Argyle Under-13s have become national champions.
The Greens, led by Dan Thompson, defeated Stockport County 1-0 in the National Final, after the two teams qualified through the group of regional finalists, which included Preston North End, Barnsley, and Cardiff City.
Stockport actually topped the group, with Argyle claiming second spot thanks to victories over Preston and Cardiff, as well as draws with Barnsley and the Hatters. The Greens came out victorious when it mattered, and carried with them the impressive feat of not conceding a goal in all five games.
Thompson’s side’s journey to the national finals started in October, when an unbeaten weekend of football in the EFL Festival at Manadon Sports Hub set the tone for the upcoming months.
A 5-0 win over Exeter City was followed by triumphs against Bristol Rovers and Newport County, with the weekend ending level against Cardiff.
The next stage was the regional finals, where eight teams were split into two groups, with the winners of each claiming their place in the national finals. Much like before, Argyle won the group in unbeaten fashion, picking off Cheltenham Town and Charlton Athletic, after an opening game draw against Luton Town.
A month later, the Greens were lifting the trophy after becoming national champions, much to the joy of all around the Academy and club.
Academy Manager Phil Stokes said: “This is a fantastic achievement to win the Under-13s EFL national final, out of 52 Category 2 and 3 Academies. Credit must go to all the players and Academy staff; the dedication, hard work, and commitment shown across the programme have been outstanding, and it’s great to see that recognised with success on a national stage.”
Head Coach Thompson said: “I’m incredibly proud of how the players have performed across all three stages of the competition — from the South West qualifiers, through the Southern Regional final, and into the national final. Their consistency, attitude, and willingness to learn have been outstanding throughout.”
