Harrogate Strays Over 70s secure double in cup final triumph

Harrogate Strays have completed a magnificent league and cup double — capping a remarkable first season together by adding the Northern Counties Alliance League Cup to their 2026 championship title.

Travelling to Wakefield already crowned league winners, the Strays set their sights on a clean sweep.

They began with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Bradford City, Tony Breslin finding the net after clever build-up play.

A narrow 2–1 defeat to tournament favourites Leggy Mambos followed — Breslin again on target — before a crucial 1–0 win over Leeds, secured by Derek Rowe’s clinical finish, kept their hopes alive.

Two tightly contested draws against Wakefield opposition tested their resolve, before a strong 2–0 win over Doncaster Dynamos earned them a final rematch against Leggy Mambos.

The final proved a tense, gripping affair, with both defences dominating. Dave Sparrow, Steve Simpson and skipper Mike Pyle were outstanding, limiting the Mambos to few opportunities.

As extra time loomed, the breakthrough arrived in stunning fashion: Rowe intercepted a loose pass, found Breslin in space, and the in-form striker unleashed a thunderous strike that flew into the top corner — a goal fit to win any final. The Strays held firm to secure a famous 1–0 victory and lift the trophy.

Manager Derek Rowe paid tribute to a squad only formed in March this year: “To bounce back from losing to Leggy Mambos in the group stage and beat them in the final shows exactly what this team is made of — character, resilience and togetherness.

"Every single player gave everything today and throughout the season. This double is a fantastic achievement.”

Tony Breslin capped a memorable campaign by being named Strays Player of the Year, his crucial goals throughout the tournament — including that cup-final winner — proving decisive.

Honours List:

🏆 Northern Counties Alliance Over-70s League Champions 2026

🏆 Northern Counties Alliance Over-70s League Cup Winners 2026