Newbury’s Football Academy has scored a historic win in the National Football Youth League Men’s Trophy at Derby County’s Pride Park Stadium, taking on Middlesbrough FC T6 in a tightly contested final.
Procision Football Academy U19s, the academy partner of Newbury College, were crowned 2025 champions after defeating their opponents 4-3 on penalties following a goalless draw in normal and extra time.
The match began with a cautious first half, with neither team gaining a clear advantage in the opening 45 minutes. Fortunes looked to change in the second half, as the intensity ramped up and both teams pushing for a breakthrough.
Procision’s goalkeeper, Donny Burke, produced a series of vital interventions, including a commanding performance on crosses and a number of key saves that kept the side in contention. A defining moment came late in the second half when Procision were awarded a penalty, only for T6 keeper Oliver Bailey to pull off his own dramatic save, ensuring the game remained level and heading into extra time.
With tension rising, both sides created chances in the additional 20 minutes, including a Procision effort that clipped the crossbar. Yet neither could find the net, sending the final to a decisive penalty shootout, where Burke made two crucial saves before Rhys Atkins coolly slotted home the winning goal. Watch the full match on YouTube.
Academy Director, Gary Clifford, said:
“This is a huge moment in the Academy's history. To win a national competition is nothing short of incredible. As well as a team of hard working and dedicated players, we have is a fantastic group of staff who go above and beyond for every player, offering experiences and opportunities they’ll cherish for life.”
The final win caps off a hugely successful season for the academy, whose other recent achievements include the T3 West Development squad being crowned league champions and now heading into the play-offs, and an overseas tour to Spain, where three teams competed in the Copa Castell tournament, securing a first-place finish against teams from across Europe.
Procision Football Academy students also benefit from academic studies delivered by Newbury College, blending professional coaching with career-focused education, which prepares young athletes for opportunities both on and off the pitch. Through this partnership, students are well-positioned to move into professional football careers, higher education, apprenticeships, or careers in the fitness and sports industry.
To find out more about the Football Academy and how to apply, visit newbury-college.ac.uk/football