Arts and sports – a winning combination! This weekend saw the final of the Hogan Cup where Foxhall Junior FC, who have been undefeated for the last two seasons, were up against Fleetwood Town Juniors Rangers Under 18s in a head-to-head.

The Hogan Cup, named after Education Officer John Hogan, and was first won by Palatine ATC in 1944.

The game held at AFC Fylde Foundation this weekend was a close match with a win 1-0 right to the end, with ‘Man of The Match’ Jacob Cheeseman (Team Captain) scoring the penalty that won the game.

Blackpool’s Grand Theatre, who sponsor Fleetwood Town Juniors Rangers Under 18s, were delighted with the result.

Ruth Eastwood, Grand Theatre’s CEO said:

“We’re proud to support initiatives – like sport and the arts – that bring young people together, build their confidence and skills and combine hard work and fun. What a win!”

Steve Simms, Manager of Fleetwood Town Juniors Rangers Under 18s said:

“After 12 years of trying to win the Hogan Cup we faced the very strong Foxhall Junior FC side that had been unbeaten in the league for the past two seasons. Our lads showed no fear though and took great confidence from some excellent recent form. After some even early exchanges we started to apply some real pressure on the Foxhall Junior’s goal which resulted in a penalty kick. Captain (Jacob Cheeseman) stepped up and smashed the ball into the back of the net which proved to be the decisive goal despite the valiant attempts from the other team. Great performance from the boys, capping off a fantastic season……well played.”

The Grand Theatre is delighted to support Fleetwood Town Juniors Rangers Under 18s this year, and will continue to do so moving forward.

Andrew Howard, Grand Theatre’s Marketing Manager said:

‘This weekend was a thrill for us all. A GRAND combination of Arts supporting Sports and showing the strong links that can form. It’s not about branding or association but a true relationship.

‘To celebrate Blackpool Grand sponsored team Fleetwood Town Rangers Under 18s have been invited to the Opening Night of Thriller Live which comes to Blackpool’s Grand Theatre direct from London’s West End where it is now in its record breaking 9th year, Thriller Live is a spectacular concert created to celebrate the career of the world’s greatest entertainer. The Team will then meet the cast of the show on stage.’

The Grand looks forward to a winning combination with Fleetwood Town Juniors Rangers Under 18s and Manager Steve Simms and gives special recognition to ‘Man of the Match’, Captain Jacob Cheeseman.