Normandie glory is just reward for TC's champs

VALE REC juniors have given coach Tony Clarkson a parting gift. The Hautes Capelles primary school teacher, commongly known as 'TC', is heading off to Dubai on a two-year teaching contract later this year.

The Normandie Cup Final against North on Monday night at the Track was his final game in charge after nine years coaching the club's minis and juniors and it ended with a 3-2 victory for the yellows.

'It was my last youth game - it was the perfect send-off,' said Clarkson yesterday.

'It was perfect for them as well - they have been so close in the other cups and league. It was great for them to come away with a bit of silverware. It's a reward for what they put into the season.'

North went into the match as favourites - having deprived Vale Rec of the league and Duquemin Cup at youth two level.

But Rec were determined to end the season on a high and started the game brightly.

They went 1-0 up after six minutes through Rory Moriarty, who stole in at the back post with a stooping header from a free-kick. An unmarked Moriarty made it 2-0 nine minutes later with a volley from 12 yards out.

But a 20-yard shot from North's Kieran Mahon shortly before the break reduced the arrears.

Mahon equalised from the penalty spot early in the second half.

A stunned Vale Rec were rocking but top scorer Jamie Gauvain showed great composure to bring the ball down and slot home the winner midway through the half.

North had some chances to draw level but were thwarted by some good saves by John Purdy in goal.

'We set out to try and restrict Matt Loaring as much as possible because we knew he was the main threat and it was one of his quieter games,' said Clarkson.

Left-back Dave Henry and superb performances from centre backs Ryan Collis and Geoff Robinson kept the dangerous Grimsby Town trialist at bay.

'It was a cracking game and a good advert for youth football,' said Clarkson.

'It was a good competitive game.'

He is sad to leave the island but sees his move to the Middle East as a new challenge and chance to gain experience.

'I'm sure there will be opportunities to get involved in youth football over there. It's what I enjoy doing,' he said.

As well as being a class teacher at the British school, which has about 750 pupils - 90% of whom are children of ex pats - he will be coordinator of PE.