Benevolent Trophy Winners 2019
Benevolent Trophy Final
Wednesday 17 April 2019
Keswick FC v Kendal United FC
At Stable Thompson & Briscoe Stadium, Parkside Road, Kendal
Kendal United lifted the Benevolent Trophy with a hard fought 1-0 victory over Keswick in the third Westmorland County FA cup final of the season.
Just three weeks earlier Keswick had knocked Kendal United out of the Senior Challenge Cup at the Semi Final stage with a 4-0 victory, so Kendal United knew it was going to be a difficult evening.
It was Kendal United who made the dream start to the final when Lewis Casey was brought down in the penalty area after some quick play. Captain Bailey Kenny stepped up and slotted the ball home past the Keswick goalkeeper John Phillips.
Keswick responded by exerting periods of pressure in the Kendal United half but were unable to create any clear cut chances. Kendal United had a great opportunity to extend their lead when Sam Hunter was played through only to see his shot hit the outside of the post. At the other end Sam Reilly came close with a header as Keswick looked to respond before half time.
10 minutes into the second half Kendal United were forced into replacing goalkeeper Jack Brolly through injury. This meant that outfield player David Crierie had to go between the sticks for the remainder of the final.
Keswick pushed on to try and find an equaliser and as Kendal United grew tired, the lively Andrew Frampton was finding more space out wide. He delivered some dangerous crosses into the box but the backline of Kendal United stood firm and handled whatever was put in front of them. Kendal United hung on to lift the Benevolent Trophy for the first time in 23 years.
Match Officials:
Dave O’Callaghan – Referee
Simon Shipperd – Assistant Referee
Terry Allonby – Assistant Referee
Mark Robson – 4th Official
Photo by Ben Challis