THE under-17 squad at Beith Juniors Community FC have returned from their Dutch adventure with silverware in hand.
The young Mighty side were in the Netherlands to compete in the Arnhem Cup at the beginning of the month.
Facing teams from both the host nation and Denmark, the 2005 side lost only one match en route to winning the plate competition.
Their action began with a 0-0 draw against Dutch side VVV Westzaan before succumbing to a their only defeat of the week, losing 4-0 to pro-side Eldenia JO17.
Their final group stage match saw the Mighty overcome Danish side Esbjerg fB, meaning they finished third in the group on goal difference, despite picking up four points from three games.
That meant they dropped into the plate competition in their quest for silverware, and in a three team round robin pool, their first match saw one of their finest performances of the week, as they dispatched Dutch outfit sv Vogelenzang 5-0.
READ MORE: Kilwinning gaffer says players have ‘got to be proud’ despite cup final defeat
In a nervy final match, Beith drew 0-0 with Dutch side Sporting Andijk to top their group and move into the final.
There they faced home nation side ESA JO17, and in a real nail biter, they went 2-1 up with seven minutes remaining, and held on to win.
The trip was an outstanding experience for all involved, which will take with them for the rest of their lives.
The North Ayrshire team left their mark on the tournament and the people or Arnhem with their positive input to not only the football, but the overall tournament.
Tournament organiser Josephine Dekkers said: “It was really great to have our Scottish friends over in Arnhem. We really enjoyed their pleasant stay and had a lot of fun with them.
“We couldn’t miss the Scottish. They were in a positive way all over the place and we could hear them from far away. I would love them to come back next year.”
The club would like to thank their main trip sponsors Beith Christian Action Group Thrift Shop, Target Applications Ltd, WI&A Gilbert and donators Gordon & Halliday, RJM Flooring, MacGregor Flooring and Jeden for making the trip possible, as well as coaches Steven Boyce, Andy Warner, Michael Cherry and Scott McNee, and Johnathan Briggs, who kept all the parents back home up to date.
READ MORE: Kilbirnie Ladeside handed fine and supporter ban following fan behaviour
