Sutton Set-Up A National League Cup Final With Leeds

Steve Morison’s team will line up against Leeds United’s U21 side in the showpiece finale - and they’re hoping to create history.

The Us are one step away from becoming the inaugural winners of the new competition and sealed their passage through after overcoming Braintree Town.

Sutton keeper Jack Sims was the hero, saving three penalties in the shoot out after a 0-0 draw and manager Morison said: “It feels brilliant. This is the first time this competition has been put on, and we have been excellent in every game.

“We’ve worked really hard and I am glad we’ve got the opportunity. It’s my old club Leeds and we’re looking forward to it.”

It was agony in the end for Altrincham, who miss out on a place in the final.

Despite Justin Amaluzor again hitting the target, Alty fell to a 2-1 defeat to the Championship club’s exciting young side.

More details about the National League Cup final will be announced in due course.

The Cup was formed this season by the Premier League and the National League. It features the first teams of National League clubs and the PL2 sides of clubs from the Premier League and EFL Championship.

The competition is designed to give young players from Premier League and EFL clubs additional opportunities to test themselves against senior opposition, with the aim of further aiding elite player development.

The cup, which began in October, also offers an opportunity for National League clubs to play regular matches against the best Under-21 teams in England at their own stadiums, with this additional exposure intended to improve the playing and spectating experience, as well as the clubs’ growth and sustainability.

PHOTO BY PAUL LOUGHLIN