“YOU will remember this for the rest of your lives” were the pre-match words that helped Coffs City United under 13s to an emphatic 3-2 victory over Bellingen FC.

Eighteen-year-old Lions coach Will Goodwin provided match insights.

“Going into the game I just wanted the boys to enjoy themselves and the moment as it’s one that they will remember for the rest of their lives,” he said.

“I knew it was going to be a hard game as Bellingen have pushed us all season and beat us two weeks prior in the first round of semi finals.

“The boys started well and got a goal early on through Dyar Qasim.

“We then grabbed another from an own goal before Bello hit back through Jasper Ryan on half time.

Goodwin won a Coastal Premier League grand final for the Lions as their goalkeeper and the shot stopping talents of the young Bellingen goalkeeper didn’t go unnoticed.

“Second half saw Bellingen’s keeper step up and make a few great saves before Dyar slotted one past him into the bottom corner.

“Jasper then got another for Bello from a penalty, the game ending 3-2 to Coffs United.

“As a coach I couldn’t have asked for anymore from this bunch of kids, the way they adapted and overcame challenges was truly amazing and shows their true characters.”

By David WIGLEY